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Karmichael Hunt signs Waratahs extension

Cape Town - Karmichael Hunt is set to play his second campaign in sky blue after the Waratahs confirmed they had re-signed him for the 2020 season.

Hunt - who joined the Waratahs at the start of the 2019 Super Rugby season - was an integral part of the side’s backline and attack, before his season was cruelly cut short through injury.

Named the Back of the Year for 2019, Hunt also finished at the pointy end of Matt Burke Cup voting after a stellar campaign.

He missed the National Rugby Championship (NRC) to focus on rehabilitating the knee injury that ended his Super Rugby season, and will start the 2020 pre-season fit and firing.

Waratahs head coach Rob Penney said Hunt had been a strong performer last season and would be an important signing for 2020.

“Everyone I’ve spoken to can’t speak highly enough of Karmichael, his attitude, professionalism and experience will be extremely valuable this season,” Penney said.

“He’s a supremely talented athlete and from all reports, sets the example for our younger guys in the way he goes about his business, looks after his body and prepares for games.

“We’ve all seen what Karmichael’s capable of across what’s been an illustrious career, he brought that to the Waratahs in 2019 and will again play a vital role in the midfield next season.

“He’s a player I’m really looking forward to working with and I’m pleased he’s remaining a Waratah for another season.”

Hunt was thankful to remain a Waratah after making his club debut in 2019.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity the Waratahs gave me to play Super Rugby (in 2019) and the care and support provided by my team-mates and everyone within the organisation,” he said.

“My family and I are happy in New South Wales and the environment at the Waratahs is a huge part of that, it’s a place that’s been great for me both professionally and personally.

“We’ve got a good young squad of guys that I’m looking forward to playing alongside, sharing some of my experiences with and contributing to their development (in 2020).

“Next season is a new challenge for all of us, it’s exciting and I can’t wait to get started.”

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