Ardie Savea announces one-season deal with the Blues

All Blacks captain Ardie Savea announced on October 2 that he has signed a one-season deal with the Blues for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season, ending speculation over his next club. Savea made the announcement during a live YouTube stream, describing the move as his “last dance.” The 32-year-old joins the Auckland club after Moana Pasifika’s collapse left him without a Super Rugby team. Savea had played for Moana after a stint with Japan’s Kobelco Steelers, where he won a championship under Dave Rennie, now the All Blacks head coach. He previously spent a decade with the Hurricanes. Blues chief executive Karl Budge said Savea could contribute both on the field and to the club’s connection with supporters. Budge described the signing as aligned with the Blues’ aim to play an attacking style and build engagement with fans. He said he hoped to remain in close contact with Savea but did not confirm whether the player might extend his contract beyond one season. Savea’s playing debut for the Blues is not expected before February at the earliest, according to the report, because he recently underwent surgery for a dislocated shoulder.