It has been a busy weekend across the sporting landscape, with a major Super Rugby signing, a tough retirement for the Blues, a Kiwi league switch, Ranfurly Shield action and an injury-hit BNZ Breakers preparing for life on the road.
The biggest signing news came from Tāmaki Makaurau, with All Blacks captain Ardie Savea signing with the Blues for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season. Savea is expected to link with the squad later this year, with the Blues seeing his playing ability, leadership and profile as an important addition to the franchise.
There was more sobering news for the Blues, with hooker Kurt Eklund retiring from rugby because of a neck injury. The experienced front-rower’s decision brings his professional playing career to an end on medical grounds.
In rugby league, Dane Gagai has been cleared to switch his international eligibility from Australia to New Zealand, opening the door for the veteran NRL centre to represent the Kiwis. Gagai previously represented Australia and Queensland but has New Zealand heritage through his father.
On the provincial rugby front, Counties Manukau have retained the Ranfurly Shield against Hawke’s Bay, keeping the Log o’ Wood in South Auckland and continuing their successful defence of one of New Zealand rugby’s most treasured trophies.
Meanwhile, the BNZ Breakers are dealing with injury problems as their NBL campaign gathers pace. Preston Le Gassick remains sidelined with a nerve impingement affecting his neck and shoulder, while import Josiah-Jordan James continues his recovery from a hamstring injury. Mo King has been brought in as injury cover.
The Breakers now face a demanding period away from home, beginning with Adelaide and followed by five consecutive road games before returning to Spark Arena on October 30. The club says the priority remains getting its injured players back safely while the rest of the squad embraces a next-man-up approach.
From Ardie Savea’s move north to the Breakers hitting the road, international league eligibility and the Ranfurly Shield staying in Counties Manukau — that is your Waatea Weekend Sports Wrap.
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