Dwayne Sweeney returns to Waikato for 2017 Mitre 10 Cup

The 32-year-old represented the Mooloos between 2002 and 2012 - winning 78 caps - and returns to his home province after four seasons in Japan, playing for Kyuden Voltex and Munakata Sanix Blues.

The versitile back has returned to New Zealand and has been training with the Chiefs.

"It's great to have a player of Sweeney's calibre back in the Waikato set up," Waikato coach Sean Botherway said in a statement.

His experience alone will be vital to the team and his ability to play a range of different position in the backline will be crucial during the season.

"He has a long history with Waikato since he debuted for the team when he was still in high school and it is great to see him continue his career with the province."

Sweeney, who's won 68 Chiefs caps, has been playing club rugby for Morrinsville Sports in this year's Waikato division one competition.