Steamers star returns home to Hurricanes

TRANSFER NEWS: Bay of Plenty Steamers scrumhalf Luke Campbell will return home to Wellington for 2021 to take up a contract with the Hurricanes.

The 25-year-old left the capital four years ago to play in the NPC, with the hope of eventually picking up a Super Rugby contract.

However, Campbell says to achieve the goal with his hometown team is a surreal feeling.

“It’s hard to describe how it feels, but it really is a dream come true,” Campbell said.

“The decision was an easy one, being from Wellington I grew up supporting this team and always wanted an opportunity to be a part of it.

“It all happened pretty quickly; Jason Holland called me a few weeks ago to get my thoughts on potentially moving back home and a week later he called to offer me the spot and I didn’t hesitate to take it.”

With co-captain TJ Perenara bowing out of Super Rugby for 2021 to take up a contract in Japan, Campbell’s signing adds another scrumhalf option to the mix alongside Jonathan Taumateine and Jamie Booth who aims to return from injury in the latter half of the season.

Hurricanes coach Jason Holland is excited about the new talent feeding into the squad.

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“Luke has impressed as a quality 9 with all the skills required for Super Rugby. His consistency of pass and kick will be vital to how we want to play the game.”

Campbell says breaking the news to his family and friends that he was coming home was special and full of emotion and he’s hoping to make the most of his chance.

“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to become a Hurricane and to step up to the next level and test myself against the best in the country. I’m also looking forward to moving back home, linking up with some old teammates from school and grade footy including James Blackwell, Wes Goosen and Jackson Garden-Bachop and to represent my family and friends.”