Pat Lam has labeled Samoan star Chris Vui an 'integral cog' in Bristol Bears' long-term vision for success having handed the forward a new four-year contract extension at the Gallagher Premiership club.
The new seal will keep Vui at Ashton Gate until at least 2026.
The Samoan international – who joined in 2017 from Worcester Warriors – has firmly established himself as one of the best lock forwards in the world, with the ability to play blindside as well
In five seasons, the 28-year-old has racked up 81 appearances, scoring seven tries and has been in the best form of his career in recent months.
Bears director of rugby Lam explained: “Chris is an integral cog in the Bears system on and off the field.
"He not only brings physicality and leadership as a big man but also an exceptional level of technical ability and tactical understanding to our game.
“To retain Chris’ services, especially when there has been global interest in his signature, is a huge positive for Bristol Bears.
"He is rightly regarded as one of the best players in the world in his position and we’ve benefitted from his versatility too, playing in the second row and back row.
“Chris was one of my first signings five years ago when our journey began in the Championship.
"He has played a massive part in our growth as a club and I’m absolutely delighted he will continue to be a critical part in our road to success over the next four years.”
Randall joins another key man in England international scrum-half Harry Randall is committing to a new deal at Bristol, will England star Ellis Genge will switch Leicester Tigers for the Bears next season and USA captain AJ MacGinty is on his way from Sale Sharks.
Vui became the youngest captain in World Rugby when he skippered Samoa in 2017. He has 18 international caps to his name and represented the Pacific Islanders in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Vui added: “I’ve loved my time with the Bears so far. To see Pat [Lam] commit for the long-term and other key teammates sign up has given me great confidence about the future of this club.
“Being part of this Bears Team Culture and playing alongside world-class teammates is a privilege.
"I’d like to pay tribute to the Bristol community who have always made me feel welcome, I’m excited to repay that faith by performing as well as I can in a Bears jersey for years to come.”
