‘Warrior’ Hopper signs new Harlequins deal

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Harlequins centre Matt Hopper has extended his contract until June 2017.

Hopper, 29, first joined Harlequins in 2011 from Cornish Pirates, making a try-scoring debut against Gloucester, and has gone to make 80 appearances.

Last year, he was called into the England Saxons squad for a second time to face Ireland Wolfhounds in Exeter, the city of his birth, and this season has played more minutes in all competitions than any of the other Quins backs.

Son of former Exeter captain Keith Hopper, he previously spent a year playing for Manly Marlins in Australia after graduating from Cardiff University and in the coming weeks he is expected to become a qualified carpenter.

Hopper said: “I’m absolutely delighted to re-sign with Harlequins – it really was a clear cut decision for me.

“The style of rugby, enthusiasm of the boys and coaching staff on a daily basis and the success I have been fortunate enough to be a part of over the past four years were the drawing factors for me to stay.”

Director of rugby Conor O’Shea added: “Matt is a warrior.

“Rugby is a physical game and Matt allies a huge amount of skill to that fighting quality you need to succeed at this level.

“We are delighted Matt has committed to us and we look forward to watching him continue to develop.”

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