Naholo gets his release – report
YOU WIN some and you lose some, but this is one victory New Zealand rugby will gladly take.
French media have reported that Clermont have agreed to release standout Highlanders wing Waisake Naholo from a two-year contract he signed before the Super Rugby season.
If that proves true – and as of Saturday the Highlanders had still not received official confirmation – it’s a significant result at a time when New Zealand rugby is bleeding talent to the cashed-up clubs of the north.
Naholo has been a revelation on the wing for the Highlanders and leads the competition with eight tries from 11 appearances. He’s looked fast, sharp and powerful, and at 24 he still has plenty of improvement in him.
Clearly he has also come on to the All Black radar, for New Zealand Rugby were quick to get involved when Naholo indicated he was keen to stay.
French media reported that NZR leaned heavily on Clermont to secure a release, though representatives from HQ were not commenting on what they saw as a contractual issue.
‘‘We are under an increasing amount of pressure from the NZRU. And when the All Black machine gets going, it becomes complicated,’’ Clermont sporting director Jean-Marc Lhermet told La Montagne.
Seldom used by the Blues, Naholo was released by the northern franchise to throw his lot in with Jamie Joseph’s side for 2015. His transformation into a quality, world-class finisher has been dramatic.
Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph has repeatedly said he sympathised with Naholo, who made the decision to sign with Clermont before he’d been given the chance to shine with the Highlanders.
‘‘He had a lot of uncertainty over the last two or three years, and hadn’t played much Super Rugby, so you don’t blame him,’’ he said previously.
Prior to Sunday’s game against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein, which Naholo missed with a bruised foot, Joseph added: ‘‘I don’t think even he thought he would be as successful as he has been this season and enjoyed the rugby as much as he has. We are really keen to keep him and he’s really keen to stay now.’’
It sounds like everyone’s wish has come true. Except Clermont’s.
Blockbusting England midfielder Manu Tuilagi has been ruled out for the World Cup after admitting three charges of assault and one of criminal damages in Leicester Magistrates Court. Coach Stuart Lancaster informed the player he would not be considered for selection for the national team until January 2016, continuing a hard line on transgressions since he took over.
‘‘I take full responsibility for my actions and unreservedly apologise to all those involved in the incident, and [to] Leicester Tigers and England,’’ the 23-year-old Tuilagi said.