Northern Edition

Select Edition

Northern Northern
Southern Southern
Global Global
New Zealand New Zealand
France France

Parking 'The Bus': Former All Blacks star Julian Savea reveals plans for future in New Zealand rugby

(Photo by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)

NZ Herald: Former All Black Julian Savea is hoping his short stay with the Hurricanes to round out Super Rugby Aotearoa turns into a permanent opportunity.

ADVERTISEMENT

Savea has joined his Hurricanes teammates in camp, following his return to the franchise. The last time the man nicknamed ‘The Bus’ played for them was in the 2018 semi-final against the Crusaders.

He spent the last two European rugby seasons with Toulon in the French Top 14, before departing in March.

Video Spacer

SamSmith returns to the heart of Chiefs country

Video Spacer

SamSmith returns to the heart of Chiefs country

Savea says he initially reached out to the Canes when returning to New Zealand, who hold a special place in his heart having spent his entire provincial career in Wellington.

“I would love to [stay], but it’s out of my hands at the moment,” he said.

“Whatever happens happens. But I’m just going to be as helpful as I can for the team and be my best.”

The Hurricanes have two games remaining in the competition and, while incredibly unlikely, still have a chance at winning the title.

Savea’s match fitness will take some time to return to his powerful best, having not played a professional game in five months. But asked if he believes he could play as soon as this coming weekend, he did not hold back.

ADVERTISEMENT

“Of course, 100 percent I’ll be keen as. Just to jump in with the boys and be back with some familiar faces to catchup has been pretty awesome so far.

“Still a long journey to get to that point. I’ll make the most of it.”

Should he fail to see any action, Savea expects to see plenty on the club rugby scene.

The Mitre 10 Cup starts next month as well, and a chance, whether with his former Wellington or another outfit, looks on the cards.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDIApYmAdqe/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

“I’m sorting through that at the moment. Where I’ll end up I’m not too sure,” he says.

Savea and his family’s decision to return to New Zealand turned out to be an easy one with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sport in Europe.

ADVERTISEMENT

Savea says long-term they want to stay here.

If the Hurricanes do not snap up the 29-year-old beyond this year, he could turn to another domestic suitor who is keen to snag his signature. Savea admits he was open to any playing opportunity when coming home.

His 2019-20 season with Toulon was cut short when play was suspended following the final match of week 17 on March 1. It brought a tumultuous stint at the club to an end, which was highlighted by president Mourad Boudjellal openly criticising Savea.

He has been able to enjoy a lengthy break while staying in Auckland.

“Probably the longest break I’ve ever had. Spending time with the family’s been awesome,” he said.

So far Savea has taken part in club rugby trainings and elected to take things slowly to avoid injuring himself.

Savea’s addition plugs a hole on the left wing following the departure of Ben Lam, who has joined French club Bordeaux. Savea’s strong running game will ideally make-up for the loss of Ngani Laumape, who is out for the rest of the competition with a broken forearm.

The Hurricanes round out their season against the Chiefs at home and Highlanders away.

ADVERTISEMENT

LIVE

{{item.title}}

Trending on RugbyPass

Comments

0 Comments
Be the first to comment...

Join free and tell us what you really think!

Sign up for free
ADVERTISEMENT

Latest Features

Comments on RugbyPass

R
RedWarrior 44 minutes ago
Records show All Blacks' greatest rugby adversary is now Ireland

Foster was literally whinging about the TMO in the Ireland series in the presser AFTER the RWC final. NZs whinging about the final itself was apparently picked up by Voyager 2 which was near the asteroid belt. What about the whingefest and crybabies after O'Mahony's legendary sledge (during the match) on Sam Cane?


I often hear talk about NZ players being poisoned or similar nonsense during the 1995 final. NZ boast that they are 'superstars' and 'humble heroes' on their own website. You gave England the same treatment in 2002-2003, calling them arrogant just because they beat you. They told the rest of us then what you were like, we should have listened. I would give as much credence to a NZ supporter disliking us, as I would to Krusty the clown saying the same thing. Let's just say your judgement may not be the best.


Regarding 2016, as the referee had basically let NZ away with cheating their way to victory via filthy dangerous play and fouling he was hardly going to pull Sexton up when clearly trying to stop a grounding. NZ always leave the boot or arm in to hurt a try scorer but that seems to be invisible to you entitles lot.


BTW NZ have literally being whinging and crying about Ireland since Soldier field. You are just very bad losers. We will be delighted to be shot of you on Friday. I hope we do so with a win, so that you rethink your philosophy of mocking opponents and spectators you've just beaten.


After the match last Saturday the internet was full of Kiwi supporters basically abusing English folk. Where is your national honour? Where is your national integrity?

8 Go to comments
LONG READ
LONG READ England need to face a few home truths if they are to relearn that winning habit England need to face a few home truths if they are to relearn that winning habit
Search