Julian Savea, the New Zealand international and former All Blacks winger, is set to join Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby next year following a “brutal” departure from the Wellington Hurricanes. Savea, known as ‘The Bus’ for his powerful finishing, has signed a one-year deal with the Auckland-based team after failing to reach an agreement with the Hurricanes.
Savea is renowned for his try-scoring prowess and is an equal record-holder for tries in Super Rugby. With 46 tries in 54 matches for the All Blacks, he ranks as the nation’s second-highest try-scorer, just behind fellow winger Doug Howlett (49).
In a social media post last week, Savea hinted at his move, expressing his departure from the Hurricanes in a manner that reflected the unpredictable nature of rugby. He has an impressive record with the Hurricanes, having made a record 153 appearances across two separate stints.
Savea’s rugby career has been marked by notable achievements, including a record-equalling eight tries during New Zealand’s successful 2015 World Cup campaign in England, which included a hat-trick in the quarter-final against France. He also matched former Australia fullback Israel Folau’s Super Rugby try-scoring record of 60 with a brace during a match against Fijian Drua in May.
Moana Pasifika, a team that represents the Pasifika community, struggled in the Super Rugby competition, finishing at the bottom of the 12-team league in their second season under former coach Aaron Mauger. Tana Umaga, the former All Blacks captain, has taken over as the coach of Moana Pasifika for the upcoming season.
The addition of Julian Savea to Moana Pasifika is seen as an inspiring move that will benefit Pasifika rugby hopefuls in New Zealand and across the Pacific. Savea’s experience and reputation in the rugby world make him a valuable asset to the team and a symbol of hope for emerging Pasifika talent.
