Nando’s has Super Rugby players, and the team’s trainers and nutritionists, smiling in the restaurant chain’s first season as a sponsor of the five New Zealand franchises. 

Blues nutritionist Tracy Kirkcaldy says the Nando’s menu has plenty of delicious choices for both players and the general public to select from.  “There are some great low fat chicken options, combined with fresh vegetables and ingredients.  It is important for our professional players to select meals which are nutritious, well cooked and enjoyable and Nando’s provides some great options for when they are eating away from home.” 

Meanwhile, this Saturday night Chiefs players will be enjoying the benefits of Nando’s food at the Newmarket Nando’s restaurant.  The restaurant has extended its hours to accommodate the Chiefs for their post-match recovery meal before they head back to Hamilton. 

Chiefs trainer Phil Healey said: “It is important to have a high protein and high carbohydrate post-match meal, but is also needs to be healthy.  The Nando’s menu for the most part is low fat, fresh and nutritious.  I’m sure the boys will be pleased to sample the great chicken menu on offer this weekend.”
 
Nando’s has entered into a two-year sponsorship with the Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders and Highlanders. 

Nando’s Franchise Manager Shailen Ramjee said: “We’re really excited to be working with Super Rugby.  Nando’s works with a lot of professional sporting groups around the world to help feed players.  Some of the biggest sporting stars are powered by our famous flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken.

 “The chicken at Nando’s is butterfly cut, before being trimmed of excess fat then marinated for 24 hours in our delicious PERi-PERi sauce.  It’s delivered fresh daily to each of our 25 restaurants around the country before being flame-grilled to order with your choice of zesty Lemon and Herb or mild to extra Hot PERi-PERi basting.

“So, not only is Nando’s a healthy option; it also tastes great too,” Shailen said.

For further information check out www.nandos.co.nz.