SBS Bank Southland Stags fans have something to celebrate as the team confirms that Ethan de Groot has re-committed to the club for the 2023 season. The All Blacks and Highlanders prop, who has played 13 tests to date, has been an integral part of the Stags team with 17 games under his belt for Southland since 2018.

Ethan de Groot, a proud Southlander, has spoken of his commitment to the team, saying “To be honest I don’t think I’d ever leave the Stags to another province, as long as Southland wants me I’ll be there.”

Rugby Southland Director of Rugby Matt Saunders is delighted to have New Zealand’s premier loose head prop on the books for the Stags in 2023. “We don’t anticipate having Ethan with us this season, all going well for him, but we are extremely proud to have a home-grown, proud Southlander representing us in the Black jersey.”

The re-signing of Ethan de Groot is a major coup for the Stags as they look to build on their 2022 season where de Groot had one run in pre-season against Otago at Rugby Park. With his skill, experience, and mentorship for the squad, he will undoubtedly remain a key member in the team’s campaign for the 2023 season no matter where in the world the young prop finds himself.

The question is, will Southland see the de Groot in the maroon jersey as well the the Black? Southland will wait with bated breath.

“I’m a proud Southlander and if I get opportunities to play for the Stags, I’ll play my hardest," said de Groot. 

Article added: Tuesday 28 February 2023