The Tongan prop becomes the first player in regional history to put pen to paper on a new-deal after celebrating his 40th birthday. Filise arrived at Cardiff Arms Park in 2006 and quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the pack. He has already made 241 appearances for the region, more than anyone else, and is now embarking on his 12th season in the capital.
He began his career in Super Rugby with the Chiefs and then the Auckland Blues before heading north to Bath Rugby. But it was in the Welsh capital where he made his name, winning the hearts of Blues supporters with a string of destructive displays at the set-piece and in the loose. Filise has represented Tonga 17 times and the Pacific Islands select XV on five occasions.
But he is not the only player to commit his future to Danny Wilson’s side. Former Wales and British and Irish Lions hooker Matthew Rees will also remain for next season. The 36-year-old will help guide the next generation of front-row talent, such as Brad Thyer, who has also penned a new contract.
Wales international front-rower Scott Andrews has extended his contract after making more than 100 appearances for his home region. Georgia prop Anton Peikrishvili is another who has signed-on for next year, and scrum-half Lewis Jones completes the squad for this season.
