Fifita adds sting of Wasps to his tale
My family and I look forward to experiencing everything that England has to offer.
Vaea Fifita
Vaea Fifita has joined players going overseas this off-season, with the 11-test All Black and Hurricanes stalwart confirming a move to the English Premiership.
The 29-year-old loose forward and lock has inked a deal with Wasps for next season, where he will link with 2016 Super Rugby winning Hurricanes teammates Brad Shields and Jeff Toomaga-Allen.
“I’m proud to be joining one of the most historic rugby clubs in the world,” Fifita said.
“I can’t wait to get started on what promises to be a very exciting journey with Wasps. I will be working hard to help the team achieve as much success as possible.
“My family and I look forward to experiencing everything that England has to offer.”
Fifita won’t be the only Hurricanes player leaving the club during the Super Rugby off-season. Midfield backs Ngani Laumape and Vince Aso have also taken up contracts offshore. Laumape will be joining Stade Francais in France, after often being overlooked by All Blacks selectors. Aso leaves the Hurricanes for Panasonic in Japan’s Top League after seven years in the team’s system and more than 50 appearances. Aso will play for Wellington in this year’s National Provincial Championship and then depart for Japan on a three-year deal.
Aso will link with Chiefs loose forward Lachlan Boshier at the club, with Boshier joining Panasonic on a two-year deal.
Blues first five-eighth Otere Black has also confirmed he will be heading to Japan, although has not yet indicated with which team he has agreed terms.
After securing Jordie Barrett’s signature for another year, the Hurricanes will be next hoping to re-sign captain Ardie Savea, whose contract finishes at the end of 2021.