Feaunati sisters sign up for next season

Zara Feaunati

England back-row Maddie Feaunati has signed a new contract with Exeter Chiefs Women along with her younger sister Zara.

Born in Trowbridge, lock Zara is an England qualified player who has experience playing for Wellington Pride U18s and Marist St Pats Rugby Football Club. She was selected for New Zealand’s U20 Women's Rugby Development Camp last year and has also represented Samoa U18s sevens and 15s.

Former Scots College student, Zara is a talented netball player who featured in the New Zealand Secondary School team that toured Australia last summer.

Maddie arrived at Sandy Park in October 2023, making her debut against Leicester Tigers Women in the Allianz Cup. She added a handful appearances before heading back home with the intention of playing in the Super Rugby Aupiki competition. She opted to return to Sandy Park instead following interest from Red Roses head coach John Mitchell. Maddie was capped for every game in the 2024 Six Nations, scoring a try against Ireland.

Maddie said: "I really enjoyed my time with Chiefs in the autumn and was keen to return when the opportunity arose, so it was an easy decision to decide to stay with a long-term contract at Sandy Park. It feels like a real family here and I am only too happy to contribute to the team's efforts in any way I can."

Head coach Susie Appleby said: “We unearthed a gem in Maddie Feaunati. She a powerful ball carrier but also a pleasure to have in our squad. When Zara expressed an interest in coming to the UK too, we were only too happy to have her on board. She is a versatile player so will be a useful addition.”