Fekitoa seals French move
Highlanders midfielder Malakai Fekitoa has confirmed he is leaving New Zealand rugby for France.
The 24-test All Black posted on his Instagram account yesterday, saying he has signed a two year deal with French club giant Toulon.
‘‘I wanted to let you all know I have decided to join Toulon (RCT) at the end of the year,’’ he said.
‘‘It has been the hardest decision of my life to leave New Zealand, but after looking at all the things that are important to me I feel this is the right time for me.’’
Fekitoa’s departure has been a talking point all season, after he admitted he had been in contact with foreign clubs in the leadup to the Highlanders’ opening Super Rugby match in February.
He’s battled to find the form which propelled him into the All Blacks in 2014-15, and speculation he would leave New Zealand intensified when he missed out on the initial All Blacks squad for the recent test series against the British and Irish Lions.
An injury to Ryan Crotty and a suspension to Sonny Bill Williams resulted in him getting called up for the third test at Eden Park, where he made a brief appearance off the bench in the 15-15 draw.
In what could be his final game in New Zealand, Fekitoa will start at centre for the Highlanders in their Super Rugby quarterfinal against the Crusaders in Christchurch tonight.
The Highlanders haven’t given up hope the man who played a key role in them winning their maiden Super title in 2015 will be back, thanking the Tongan-born midfield back via social media.
‘‘Mala, thank you for an amazing ride over the past four seasons and the 60+ games you’ve laced up the boots for us. We ... hope to have you back in the Highlanders in 2020.’’
Fekitoa will join former All Blacks Ma’a Nonu and Luke McAlister at Toulon.
The Highlanders will also farewell pivot Marty Banks and wing Patrick Osborne at the end of the season, but wing Waisake Naholo will stay with the southerners next year.