Savea resigns with NZR
WELLINGTON: All Black Ardie Savea has resigned with New Zealand Rugby until 2021 after turning his back on a lucrative move to Europe.
It had been reported Savea had agreed in principle to join French club Pau after next year’s World Cup but the 25yearold Hurricanes loose forward has had a rethink.
‘‘Truly blessed to have resigned with NZ for 20202021,’’ Savea said on his Instagram page yesterday.
‘‘To be honest was a very tough decision but being at home with family and close friends and the opportunity to play for @allblacks @hurrican esrugby
@wgtn—rugby
I couldn’t leave.’’
Savea made his debut for the All Blacks in 2016 and has spent much of his international career as a backup to openside flanker Sam Cane.
Injuries to other All Blacks forwards gave him the chance to start seven tests this season, however, and he made the most of his moment in the spotlight.
Cane broke a bone in his neck during the 3230 victory over the Springboks in Pretoria in early October.
While he is expected to make a full recovery, the seriousness of the injury undoubtedly changed All Black coach Steve Hansen’s thinking on the composition of his squad for next year’s World Cup defence.
The new contract with NZR ends a potential Savea family reunion in France’s Top 14.
Savea’s older brother Julian was granted early release from his NZR contract this year after being dropped by the All Blacks and joined Toulon. — Reuters