All Blacks and Blues Fijian number 8 Hoskins Sotutu gave the All Blacks and Blues fans some great news after signing a new contract with NZ Rugby yesterday.
The new deal will see the 14 caps All Black remain with the Blues until 2026, much to the delight of coach Vern Cotter who says Sotutu can do things no other player in his position can do with ball in hand.
Cotter says Sotutu’s try scoring ability have helped him build scoreboard pressure and he’s getting regular turnovers at lineout and tackle situations.
He says the 25-year-old is building his performance from game to game and his consistency each week is remarkable considering he’s playing big minutes.
Sotutu currently sits atop the highest try-scorers list in Super Rugby Pacific during his resurgent 2024 campaign to date and has proven to be one of the most valuable talents in the competition.
After sealing the deal, Sotutu says he is incredibly proud and honoured to extend his time with the Blues as the club means a lot to him and he is committed to contributing his best both on and off the field in the coming seasons.
He says the Blues feels like home to him and he has got a lot of mates there who he has played many seasons of rugby alongside.
Sotutu and the Blues will take on the Hurricanes at 4.35pm tomorrow in Auckland in round 12 of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition.
Meanwhile, the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua will take on the Western Force at 11.55pm tomorrow in Perth.
In other matches this week, Moana Pasifika will play the Chiefs at 7.05 tonight, the Reds will take on the Rebels at 9.35 tonight, the Highlanders will take on the Crusaders at 7.05pm tomorrow and the Waratahs will host the Brumbies at 9.35pm tomorrow.
