Willison to fill Nonu void
The Blues have snapped up Chiefs centre Jackson Willison to fill the void left by Ma'a Nonu's controversial exit to the Highlanders.
Willison had been dropped by Chiefs coach Dave Rennie in the hope that he could pick him up again in the draft, but Blues coach John Kirwan managed to lure the former Baby Black to Auckland.
Having played a limited role with the Chiefs, this may signal Willison's chance to get an extended run in the starting line-up, and he is not the only promising player snapped up by Kirwan.
The new Blues boss has also brought in former Baby Black flank Ronald Raaymakers and Sevens ace Frank Halai, both from Counties Manukau as well as Taranaki halfback Jamison Gibson-Park.
Kirwan spoke out strongly against the manner in which All Black star Nonu departed the franchise, but he has certainly moved quickly to replace him as he plans for his first Super Rugby season.