SIMON RAIWALUI rejected a lucrative offer to play in France to sign a new two-year contract with Saracens this week.

The 30-year-old former Fijian captain, signed from Newport in 2003, is understood to have turned down a six-figure sum to play for big-spending next season Pau next season in order to stay at Vicarage Road.

"Three or four months ago I would have said yes (to a move to France)," admitted Raiwalui.

"It was the in the pipeline but things have been brilliant here for the last two months and now I couldn't be happier. I'm really pleased to have agreed the contract and I'm totally committed to Saracens."

Raiwalui's change of heart was brought about by the appointment of Steve Diamond.

"When Steve took over he sat me down, explained what he wanted to do, where he wanted to take the club and where he saw my role in the team. His game-plan suits my style and I'm really enjoying my rugby."

Diamond was understandably delighted at securing the services of a player he regards as "the best ball-carrying lock in the country".

"It provides the squad with a huge lift," said Diamond. "To see a player turn down substantial offers from elsewhere to stay with the club demonstrates his commitment to this club and that he thinks we are going places over the next two or three years.

"Simon and (Cobus)Visagie form the cornerstone of the pack," continued Diamond when asked to underline the Fijian's qualities.

"Simon is the engine room of the pack and allows Fully (Iain Fullarton) to be the player he is. He is the best ball-carrying lock in the country by a country mile and he's been oustanding this season."

Diamond and Raiwalui's association stretches back almost a decade when they played together in the same side at Sale.

"I've known him since he came over here as a 21 year-old and he has matured beyond all recognition," added Diamond.

"He is a totally different individual from the one I knew at Sale and has really developed his leadership skills."

Raiwalui captained the side last season and on the odd occassion this season but it has been his second-row partnership with Fullarton that has caught the eye.

"Fully is probably the best lock I have played with," said Raiwalui. "He is a bit more graceful than me and his line-out work and work around the park is very, very good."

Raiwalui is the latest big-name player to commit his future to the club, following in the footsteps of Cobus Visagie, Taine Randell and Richard Hill.