Bristol Bears have announced that versatile prop Max Lahiff has agreed a contract extension with the club.
The 34-year-old experienced front rower, who can operate on both sides of scrum, has made 83 appearances for the club during a five-year spell and has fast become a fan favourite on and off the field with his wacky, one of a kind interviews. With England international tighthead Kyle Sinckler leaving the Bears for Toulon next season, Lahiff looks likely to Bristol's first choice in the number three jersey with the club also bringing in Lovejoy Chawatama from London Irish as a senior option in the key frontrow position.
Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam said: “Max is a versatile and experienced prop who has played some of his best rugby for the Bears during his five seasons so far with us. His ability to play both tighthead and loosehead is an invaluable quality and his experience, as someone with more than 150 Premiership appearances under his belt, he will continue to be hugely beneficial to our younger players in the front row.
“Max is a great character and perfect for our environment, and he adds real value to our culture on and off the field.”
Lahiff said: “I’ve loved being at the Bears and I feel I have developed as a player and an athlete during my time here. I’m excited about the potential of a young and high-quality group and what we can achieve.
“It’s my role to continue to support the development of the young players, be a positive leader in the environment and give my best to the jersey every time I take the field.”
Lahiff has previously played for Bath, London Irish, London Welsh and the Melbourne Rebels and away from the pitch is forging himself a career in the media.
