Drauniniu signs new Warriors contract (From Worcester News)

Drauniniu signs new Warriors contract

6:00am Wednesday 16th January 2013 in Sport By Steve Carley, @stevecarleyWN

RICHARD Hill has heralded Josh Drauniniu as one of the top three wingers in the country after the try-machine agreed a new contract with Warriors.

The 27-year-old, who has scorched over for an impressive 12 tries in 18 games for Worcester, will today sign a long-term deal at Sixways.

Drauniniu committing himself to the Aviva Premiership club comes just days after he was the hat-trick hero against Rovigo in the Amlin Challenge Cup as Warriors rattled up an 80-17 victory to keep their slim European hopes alive.

The former England Sevens international was brought to Worcester from London Welsh in 2011, where he established himself as one of the most deadly predators in the Championship.

He arrived as a replacement for the departing Miles Benjamin and Marcel Garvey and Hill believes he has more than stepped up to the plate.

The Worcester head coach said: “Josh came to Warriors as a very raw player with a huge amount of ability and natural talent, particularly in attack.

“His game needed refining to become a Premiership player and, credit to him, he has worked exceptionally hard during his time here, especially with Phil Larder on his defence.

“Josh has become a very good defender and has filled some big boots since the departure of Miles Benjamin and Marcel Garvey last year.

“In attack he is hungry for the ball and is a predator.

“He has realised how good a player he can be and I would rate him as one of the best attacking wingers and in the top three in the country.”

Hill continued: “He has got it all and he plays with a smile on his face which I like to see. Josh has a big future and we are delighted that is with Worcester Warriors.”

Drauniniu said: “I’m very happy to sign the contract. I love the club and I love the fact that all the facilities we need as players are in the vicinity of the stadium.

 

“The club is great. We’ve got a promising team this season and I believe we’ll have an even better side next season.

“I didn’t want to go anywhere else,” he added. “I spoke to my agent and told him I was happy and settled here so I never considered moving to another club."