Flamboyant All Black Rene Ranger will leave New Zealand for French club Montpellier later this year.
Ranger, 26, ended speculation on Thursday about his playing future by confirming he had signed with Montpellier in December.
He will begin a two-year contract in September at the completion of the Rugby Championship involving New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and Argentina.
The powerful outside back’s blistering form for Super Rugby side the Blues lifted him back into the All Blacks after playing three Tests in 2010.
His management investigated backing out of the French contract but Montpellier demanded a release fee, which Ranger won’t disclose but says is well beyond his means.
The signing confirmation came minutes after he was named to start on the All Blacks left wing against France in the third Test at New Plymouth on Saturday.
He came off the bench in the first two Tests and says the promotion to start gives him a new focus now that his long-term future is determined.
“Everyone’s been asking if I’m staying or if I’m leaving. It’s good to get it off my shoulders, but now I’ve got a starting position on my shoulders,” he said.
Ranger replaces Julian Savea, who Hansen says played well in last week’s 30-0 second Test win in Christchurch but is in need of a rest.
Hansen wants Ranger to replicate his destructive form off the reserve bench from the opening whistle.
The burly back is also a chance to switch to centre late in the game.
ohtani's jacket
Guest
That's a crazy amount of money for a guy who isn't really a star player, but good for him. In the long run, the money will be better than the caps he might have got.
atlas
Guest
I would disagree He's available for a further eight tests before heading to France; whether he's selected - no guarantees, Tamati Ellison and Cry Jane will be back before then - but still handy to have him available The Montpelier deal reported as NZ$600,00 per year. that is the same amount as the top three ABs get paid - McCaw, Carter and Conrad Smith. Good luck to him.
expatmatt
Guest
and so might he - he could be back back in black in a couple of years or sooner if Montepollier spit a dummy wish him all the best - its been a short AB career to date but fun to watch
Nick Cross
Guest
Probably not but I'm not sure that's relevant. The coaches have been v open that they were going to try a few things when the series was won, and it's a good idea if you ask me to blood some new players. Although you might argue they'd be better to start Piutau given Ranger doesn't have a future beyond this year with ABs.
mania
Guest
nah thats sour grapes. let him play as a bon voyage. be good to see him play outstanding b4 he goes. u never know, u might just enjoy it
Tui
Guest
Big loss as he has so much potential at the highest level but no need to play him now IMHO. If you cant commit you should be omitted immediately.
Bazza Allblack Supporter
Roar Rookie
that's the AIG Darkness you mean...
AdamS
Roar Guru
That's a shame, big loss to SXV and the AIGs.
Ben.S
Roar Guru
Can't wait to see Ranger playing in Europe. He's going to get fat too... Just an observation.
clarkeg
Guest
I wonder if Savea would be in need of a rest if the test series was tied at one each.