The All Blacks skipper Ardie Savea has confirmed his move to the Blues for the upcoming Super Rugby season. After some uncertainty following the collapse of Moana Pasifika earlier this year, Savea, at 32, has signed a one-year contract with the Auckland-based team. The move is strategic as Savea aims to gear up for the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Savea's transition to the Blues was not instant, having been in talks since July. The deal, involving NZ Rugby, took some time to finalize due to various components needing alignment, including the official announcement's timing. Savea's decision to join the Blues will see him stay put in Auckland, bolstering his preparations for the World Cup.
His addition to the Blues is timely. After sustaining a dislocated shoulder during the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour in South Africa, which cut his season short, Savea is on the mend. Once fit, he’ll bring a wealth of experience to a Blues' loose-forward lineup that includes names like Anton Segner, Malachi Wrampling, Torian Barnes, and Che Clark.
The Blues will benefit from Savea’s leadership and skillset, especially after the recent departures of All Blacks Dalton Papali’i and Hoskins Sotutu to clubs overseas. The timing of these shifts leaves a gap that Savea will likely fill quite effectively.
Siya Kolisi, a fellow rugby professional, expressed his good wishes for Savea on his new chapter:
“Wishing Ardie well for his next move.”
