Harlequins back row, Maurie Fa'asavalu, has signed a new contract which will see the Samoan remain with the club until at least the end of the 2013/14 season.
Fa'asavalu, who is currently at the World Cup with Samoa, joined Quins from rugby league side St Helen's last season, after making 164 appearances for the Super League club. A former sevens specialist, he made his test debut in the back row for Samoa in 2002, before going on to play every game in thei2003 Rugby World Cup.
Even with the strength in depth of the club's current back row options, the experienced 31-year-old made a huge impact on both Quins' domestic and European campaigns last season, and Quins fans will never forget the mark he left on two-time Heineken Cup champions Munster in the Amlin Challenge Cup semi-final at Thomond Park.
Dangerous with the ball in hand and a devastating tackler, Fa'asavalu made 19 appearances for the London side last season, and was a key member of the side which defeated Stade Francais in the Amlin Challenge Cup final in May.
Director of Rugby, Conor O'Shea, said: "Maurie has made a huge impact on both players and supporters alike and his example as a professional in everything he does is one which all young players should follow. He is a delight to have around. There is no doubt he brings something different and will help us develop further as a group. We look forward to having him back after the World Cup."
Fa'asavalu said: "I am really excited to have re-signed with Harlequins, from the end of this season, for another 2 years.
"It's great to be part of a squad that is continually growing and where everyone is working hard to achieve our goals to bring silverware to the club."
