Blues 2024

Tim

So, anyone know if Hodgman is returning? Think we really missed him this year.

Only props known to be signed beyond this year are Josh Fusitua (2025) and Ofa Tuʻungafasi (2024). Laulala is going to France? Lay brothers are more stop gaps than anything else. Renata not good enough in scrum. Sione Ahio next in line for tight head? Maybe Tevita Mafileo as a loosehead?

Riccitelli and Vikena are back next year. Does Eklund make the cut? Who else could we sign?

Sounds like the lock from Castres is coming into the squad. Him, Tuipulotu, Darry, and Suafoa would be the core. Would be great to have another big lock competing for a place in the starting line up. McWhannell still in play?

Tim

Did we really get anything out of Barrett that we couldn't have gotten from Perofeta?

Probably not.

nostrildamus

@Tim said in Blues 2023:

Did we really get anything out of Barrett that we couldn't have gotten from Perofeta?

Probably not.

More hospital passes?

Nogusta

@Tim said in Blues 2023:

So, anyone know if Hodgman is returning? Think we really missed him this year.

Hodgman is off to France as well. Blues did not offer him anything for next year. James Lay I thought had re-signed but a late offer from MP had him reconsidering so not 100% sure.

Tim

@Nogusta Thanks!

Any idea on who will be signed in the front row?

Tim

Prior to this squad naming the Herald understands Akira Ioane signed a two-year contract extension with New Zealand rugby to signal he will stay and fight for a recall. Hoskins Sotutu is also contracted until the end of next year.

george33

There was rumors of Akira maybe signed for Highlanders but haven't herd ,I guess he's still a Blues boy

SouthernMann

@george33 said in Blues 2023:

There was rumors of Akira maybe signed for Highlanders but haven't herd ,I guess he's still a Blues boy

We are really going hard at everyone it seems.

george33

Ok haven't heard the name B4 and that's not disrespectful of the young man

SouthernMann

He is standing in between Gregory and Bekhuis here. Looks to be a decent size for an openside.

george33

Yes seems to have size for a young guy be interested to follow his progress

Tim

So, we need a loosehead (Hodgman) and tighthead (Laulala) replacement, and maybe a replacement for James Lay as well. Eklund and Renata might be on the fringe too. Any whispers about signings? Ahio next in line?