Fiji international Viliame Mata pens new deal with Edinburgh

Edinburgh have confirmed Fiji international Viliame Mata has penned a new deal that will keep him with the Pro14 club at least until the end of the 2020/21 season.

The 6 ft 5 in back-row has been part of Edinburgh since 2016 making 55 appearances in which he scored 11 tries. Mata was initially contracted until the end of the next season but now has extended his stay until the end of the 2021 season.

“I’ve had a great time in Edinburgh over the last two seasons. We’ve settled in well and my family loves it here. We’re excited and blessed to be staying in this city for another two seasons," he said.

“The club is definitely growing and I’m so excited to see how we can keep improving. I’m still getting used to the weather here as it’s so different to back home, but I’ve got another two seasons to keep adapting!

“I feel like I fit in really well here and the boys always make me feel right at home. I’m delighted to be extending my stay in Edinburgh, which has truly become a second home for my family and I.”

Mata made his international debut for Fiji in 2017 and in the last two years, he has featured in nine Tests scoring two tries.

“Vili is one of the most exciting talents in the world right now, so I’m delighted that he feels that his future is here in Edinburgh,” said head coach Cockerill.

“We love him, and he thrives in the culture we’ve created around him. He’s still a young man, so I’m looking forward to seeing what he produces in an Edinburgh jersey in the years ahead.”