Former All Black Ross Filipo and Maori All Black, Ben May have signed with the Magpies for the 2016 Mitre 10 Cup.

“We’re very pleased to be able to secure Ross and Ben, they’re quality men with a significant amount to offer on and off the field”, HBRU CEO Mike Bishop said today.

“With the season ending injuries to key performers Brendon Edmonds and Michael Allardice, it was important to replace them with similar experience and talent and Ross and Ben will add both to our playing squad in 2016”, Magpies Head Coach, Craig Philpott said today.  “Ross has had an fine career at All Black, Super Rugby and Provincial level in New Zealand over many years and has just won a European Championship with Racing in France. Ben is a proven performer at Maori All Black, Super Rugby and Provincial level over an extended period.  Both are highly professional will add value to our squad this year”, Philpott further stated. 

“I’m excited about joining the Magpies and reuniting with my former Chiefs teammates Michael Allardice, Brad Weber and Sam McNicol for the Mitre 10 Cup. I believe Hawkes Bay will be a real force in the Premiership this season” said Ross Filipo.

Ben May stated “With having had five Magpies teammates in the Hurricanes forward pack this year, the transition into playing for Hawkes Bay should be a seamless one, and a challenge that I am looking forward to.”