Bristol Bears build fearsome back three with Piutau signing extension

Bristol Bears have confirmed Charles Piutau has agreed a new contract extension to stay at Ashton Gate until 2022.

The full-back will anchor a back three including new blockbuster signing Semi Radradra and Luke Morahan in the Premiership next season.

Piutau, 28, joined Bristol from Ulster in 2018 and has since shown the calibre of skill which won him 17 caps for the All Blacks.

“My family and I are loving our time in Bristol and it was an easy decision to stay,” Piutau told the club’s website.

“It’s always an honour to play alongside my brother [Siale Piutau] and to represent the Bears in front of the awesome fans at Ashton Gate.

“There’s a brilliant environment and a group of boys who are giving everything for the jersey and the community.

“Pat Lam has been a massive influence on my career and I’m loving my rugby here.”

Bristol boast play-off credentials based on early-season viewing, with the Bears second in the Premiership standings after five rounds.

And Piutau has been in explosive form, topping the league’s metres made charts with 551.

“Charles is an outstanding team man and a world class talent. He has the ability to create opportunities out of nothing for the team, so we’re delighted that he’s committed to the Bears and our vision,” said director of rugby Pat Lam.

“What has been most pleasing is how enthusiastic Charles is about the Bears, his team-mates and the city.

“He applied for, and was appointed to, the role of community leader in the player leadership group this season, which underlines how much he cares about the community.”