Blues 2021
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Outstanding North Harbour loose forward Dillon Hunt will return home to Auckland to join the Blues in Super Rugby after four seasons with the Highlanders.
The North Harbour captain has made two appearances for the All Blacks with his debut in Japan in 2018 and he was one of the standout performers in Super Rugby Aotearoa, topping the tackling count for the competition.
Hunt, who will play for the South Island in next week’s inter-island fixture, is excited to re-join with his North Harbour team for the Mitre-10 Cup and to link with the Blues.
“For me it is about coming home to play my rugby. My partner and family are both in Auckland which was a big motivator for me,” said Hunt. “I grew up watching the Blues and I have always been a big fan, so this is an exciting opportunity for me.”
Blues coach Leon MacDonald said Hunt will be an asset to a talent-laden loose forward group.
“Dillon is a quality performer with a high work-rate and it’s good to have him back home. Loose forwards operate in a high impact area of the game, so we need quality depth. As captain of North Harbour, he will also bring his leadership qualities to the group.”
Blues CEO Andrew Hore said Hunt’s signing is another positive message for young players from the region looking to stake a career in the game.
“Dillon has come through the North Harbour and Blues system and got his chance at the Highlanders. We can’t always find a place for all our talent, but we are delighted that this opportunity has arisen for us to sign an excellent Blues product and he gets the opportunity to make home where his heart is.”
North Harbour CEO David Gibson said it is a great outcome for everyone.
“It really ticks all the boxes – Dillon and his family, Harbour, the Blues, and our approach to support those from our community. He is a genuine good bloke who brings so much on and off the field. We are really happy for him.”
Hunt, a product of Westlake Boys College, joined the Highlanders as a replacement in 2017, playing 41 times and was an injury replacement for the All Blacks in 2017 playing against a French XV, and made his official debut against Japan in 2018.
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gutted, was an important part of the team this year....dont break or ignore him!
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@Stargazer said in Blues 2021:
Has anyone read anywhere for how many seasons Hunt has signed with the Blues?
Herald is reporting 2 years.
One test All Blacks loose forward Dillon Hunt is returning home after switching from the Highlanders to the Blues for the next two years. -
@Duluth My guess would be either Lamborn is returning to his U.S. club or they dropped Riedlinger-Kapa. With Papalii wanting to specialize at 7 Lamborn can cover 6 where he plays for the U.S. Would be a bit tough on Riedlinger-Kapa who hasn't had a chance to prove himself as 6, 8, lock cover and at 22 y/o might be a better investment than Lamborn at 29.
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@Daffy-Jaffy Wasn't Riedlinger-Kapa on a WTG contract? If no one else is willing to sign him to a full contract, we might be able to keep again with another WTG contract. I hope we prioritize him over Aaron Carroll.
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@Dice said in Blues 2021:
Our backrow depth is ridiculous at the moment.
you're right...probably wasted money...call it off?
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@Dice He was on a full contract this season after being first on apprentiship then wtg in previous 2 seasons , so has been a project. Was injured pre covid then did not get a chance to play after. They seemed to prefer Carroll on the bench after his good contributions in South Africa. I also wonder who Darry is replacing? Tucker or Carroll?
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