Collins signs oneyear contract extension for Blues

AUCKLAND: Blues and Otago fullback Michael Collins has recommitted to the northern franchise by signing a oneyear extension to his contract.

Injury and a recent preference from Blues coach Tana Umaga to select Matt Duffie at the back means Collins has not had as many opportunities this year as he did last year, his first with the Blues, when he played all but one roundrobin match.

Collins, a solid decision maker who is good under the high ball and can attack well on the counter, has played eight of the Blues’ 12 matches so far this season and said he believed in the direction the team was going.

He signed even before the confirmation that former All Black fullback Leon MacDonald will join the franchise as an assistant coach for three years starting next season.

‘‘I’ve resigned for another year, which I’m excited about,’’ the 25yearold said. ‘‘I honestly believe change will happen here and I want to be part of that.

‘‘I was lucky with T [Umaga] giving me a chance. If I can

contribute in any way I’ll be happy with that.’’

Collins was on the point of heading back to Wales after a successful stint with Scarlets in the Pro 12 competition before he joined the Blues last year.

Although the Blues had a disappointing season, Collins was sound at the back and impressed the coaching team.

With Rieko Ioane expected to have a break this week, Collins is most likely to start at fullback and Duffie on the wing.

Collins said the side had never lost belief.

‘‘From an outsider’s perspective you probably only see losses and that’s 100% understandable, but from in the camp the belief has always been there and everyone gets on.

‘‘I believe in the direction we’re heading and what we’re trying to achieve.’’

The Blues, secondlast on the table with only the Sunwolves below them, waved goodbye to their playoff hopes months ago. They have four roundrobin matches remaining.

In an extraordinary run of results, the Blues have lost to the Chiefs, Sharks, Highlanders, Jaguares, Hurricanes and Crusaders at what was previously their fortress at Eden Park. They take on the Rebels at Eden Park on Saturday.

‘‘We’ve got two New Zealand derbies and two games against Australian teams in which to make a statement and that’s what we intend to do.’’

Collins has also signed on for two more years with Otago. He missed Otago’s season last year because of a leg injury. — NZME