News

The Counties Manukau PIC Steelers will have a bit of history in their 2021 Bunnings Warehouse National Provincial Championship squad with young lock Alex McRobbie earning a contract.

The talented youngster of the famed Bombay McRobbie family returns to the region after time spent playing in Japan.

The son of Bombay Premier Reserve winning player Clarke McRobbie and grandson of legendary Steelers centurion Ean McRobbie, Alex brings a sense of pedigree along with his renowned athleticism to the PIC Steelers mix.

The former St Kentigern College star linked up with his junior club Bombay midway through the 2021 club season after coming back from Japan.

He joins what is a formidable looking forward pack this season even if Nepo Laulala, Dalton Papali’i and Hoskins Sotutu are unavailable due to All Blacks Rugby Championship selection.

The pack features Wallabies centurion Sekope Kepu as well as Tongan international Sila Puafisi, who will provide leadership and a strong platform up front.

Also securing contracts are veteran forwards Sam Slade (Pukekohe), Joe Royal (Patumahoe), Matiaha Martin (Bombay) and Viliame Rarasea (Ardmore Marist) while Waiuku prop Sue Asomua, Ardmore Marist hooker Zuriel Togiatama and Samoan international Kalolo Tuiloma all return for the 2021 season.

Manurewa outside back Asaeli Tikoirotuma has earned a contract after a strong club season while experienced utility Luteru Laulala is back for another season.

Another 7-10 contracts are likely to go to stand-out club players.