All Black makes shock Super Rugby move

NEWS: All Blacks loose forward Ardie Savea has put pen to paper to recommit to New Zealand Rugby until 2027.

The vice-captain’s contract will take him through to the 2027 World Cup – extending an international career that racked up 84 Test caps since his debut against Wales in 2016.

The 30-year-old – who was named as the 2023 World Player of the Year and also served as the vice-captain ahead of the Test series against England and Fiji lead the haka for the first time at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego on Saturday, July 20.

“The passion for the black jersey will always be there and I’m grateful for the opportunity I get to keep putting my hand up over the next three years. I’m excited about what is ahead and will continue to challenge myself and my teammates to be better every day,” said Savea.

All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson expressed his delight with Savea’s decision.

“Ardie brings a huge amount of passion, care and mana [power] to the All Blacks environment. He has led through his actions over a long period of time and has inspired his teammates with the way he’s represented his country, community, culture and family. He continues to have that drive to get better every day, and it’s a great result for New Zealand Rugby to have him recommit for another three years.”

“Having a player with Ardie’s experience and standing in the game recommit to playing in New Zealand is a great outcome. Not only has he been outstanding with his performances on the field, but he is also an inspiration off the field through giving his time, be it through his local club Oriental Rongotai, the Wellington Lions or the Hurricanes.”

Savea’s loyalty to the All Blacks has been matched at Super Rugby Pacific level where he has played for the Hurricanes for more than a decade after making his debut against the Waratahs as a 19-year-old in 2013.”

Savea also stated that his move to Moana Pacifica was an opportunity for him to pay homage to his roots – with the loose forward hailing from the Samoan villages of Siumu.

“I’ve got massive respect for my Hurricanes family and I loved serving them for 11 years. But I think it’s the right time for a change and I spent a lot of quiet time with my family thinking about things before making this decision.

“To have this team show the love and support they have for me and my family is special. Knowing that, regardless of anything that might happen, they will look after me and my family – I think that means a lot.

“It will be huge to give back to my heritage and my culture in such a meaningful way. My brother Julian has told me that this team was made for us so I can’t wait to get started.

“I know that I’m going to an environment where I am going to learn and grow in areas that I may not have even considered. It will be challenging and rewarding which is really exciting, but above all I’m really keen to serve and help grow the legacy of Moana Pasifika.”

Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee stated that Savea’s legacy would live on at the club.

“It’s sad to see Ardie leave the Canes. He played 131 games since his debut in 2013 and will always be a Hurricanes legend. We wish him and Saskia and the kids all the best for the future.”

Moana Pacifica head coach Tana Umaga also shared his thoughts on Savea joining the outfit:

“Ardie has had a remarkable rugby career so far, excelling both in New Zealand and on the international stage. His signing with us speaks to his commitment to his Pacific heritage and a dedication to nurturing the next generation of Pacific players.

“He brings invaluable skills both on and off the field and as a leader and role model, he is highly respected by his peers and adored by fans.”