Two of the most experienced members of the Leicester Tigers squad have agreed new contract terms at the club.
With nearly 350 first-team appearances between them, Matt Smith and Mathew Tait have both committed to the club beyond the end of the current season.
Smith has more than 200 appearances to his name since making his senior debut back in 2006, following in the footsteps of his dad Ian ‘Dosser’ Smith, a former club captain and coach.
Tait, a World Cup Finalist with England in 2007, is in his seventh season at the club after previous spells with Newcastle Falcons and Sale Sharks.
They both serve as excellent examples to younger players on and off the field here.
Tigers head coach Matt O'Connor
Head coach Matt O’Connor said: “Smithy and Taity have proved very valuable members of the squad over a number of years. They are very committed to the Tigers and they’re able to play in a number of different roles.
“They also both serve as excellent examples to younger players on and off the field here.”
Smith, who has made 216 first-team appearances, said: “It is no secret that I always wanted to play for this club, it means a lot to me and I’m delighted to be able to extend my career here beyond the end of the current season.
“We were very successful under Matt O’Connor in his previous spell here and everyone in the squad hopes we can do that again.”
Tait has played at full-back and centre this season and made his 100th Premiership appearance for the club in Sunday’s win over Saracens.
He said: “I’m delighted and excited to be able to agree a further contract at this great club for another year. I love playing at Welford Road in front of great supporters and look forward to continuing to play a part in the squad for the future.”
