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Queensland have pushed the Hurricanes and the Blues giving the Reds coach confidence they can match it with the top teams.
Code-hopping star Roger Tuivasa-Sheck will play for the Auckland Blues in 2022, the Super Rugby franchise and NZ rugby announced.
The Warriors skipper confirmed earlier this week this would be his final last season in the NRL as he wanted to return to rugby union.
“It has been a dream of mine for a long time to one day play rugby union again, to get this opportunity with New Zealand Rugby, the Blues and Auckland is exciting,” said the 2018 Dally M winner.
“The timing feels right to do this now. That said, I have a big year ahead of me and will turn my attention to this opportunity later in the year.”
Tuivasa-Sheck has signed a two-year deal with the Blues, who are thrilled to have the 27-year-old NRL star donning their colours next year.
“His roots were in rugby and we know he will be an exceptional player,” said Blues CEO Andrew Hore.
“More importantly he is an outstanding leader who will embrace the links we are creating in the wider community.
“Roger will be a superb contributor to our club, and we hope his fans will follow him to Eden Park next season.”
Tuivasa-Sheck’s signing also makes him eligible for All Blacks selection for the 2023 World Cup.
NZ Rugby general manager Chris Lendrum said Tuivasa-Sheck’s return to the code was a major coup.
“He is a highly talented athlete who has achieved a huge amount in rugby league, but, equally, has proven himself as a leader on and off the field and an outstanding role model,” said Lendrum.
“Roger has some goals he wants to achieve in rugby, and we are thrilled to be able to give him the opportunity to chase those goals.”
The NRL premiership winner is one of the biggest names in the code after starting his career in 2012 with the Sydney Roosters.
© AAP
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