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All Blacks Ma’a Nonu and Andrew Hore have been deemed surplus to requirements by the Hurricanes and will not be at the Super Rugby franchise next year.
Coach Mark Hammett confirmed on Wednesday that the pair had been informed on Monday they would not be offered contracts for 2012.
Hammett said there was a combination of factors behind the move made by the Hurricanes coaching team and management but refused to identify them.
“We’ve got to make decisions on how we move forward and it’s been a combined decision,” he said.
The 29-year-old Nonu was more forthcoming in a statement.
“It’s pretty disappointing not being required next year,” he said.
“I had nothing to do with the matter, but that’s the way it goes. It’s a shame but you move on.
“I’ve spent a third of my life in this team, I’ve met a lot of great guys and made a lot of friends over the years and I’m grateful for that.
“I’m pretty proud of what I’ve done in this team. In my wildest dreams I never thought I’d make Canes … I got to play with my schoolboy heroes.”
Nonu declined to comment on his future, but was adamant the rugby public would still see more of him.
“It’s not the end, I move on. I still get the chance to do what I love and that’s playing rugby wherever that may lie.”
He has been linked with a potential move to the Chiefs and was also rumoured to being courted by clubs France, while hooker Hore is understood to be keen on a season for the Highlanders.
Hammett conceded the timing of the announcement, with two games left in the season, was not ideal but he was keen to give Nonu and 32-year-old Hore the chance to play their final home game for the franchise, against the Crusaders next week.
“These guys also have to have the opportunity to look ahead as well in terms of what they’re doing for their futures,” Hammett said.
Hammett said the reaction among the players had been understandable.
“Like anyone who’s leaving a family there’s some that are very close in a squad,” he added.
“For the guys that are really good mates that’s a difficult time for those boys.”
Both Nonu and Hore will start for the Hurricanes in their match against the Chiefs in Hamilton in Friday night in what will be Neemia Tialata’s 100th Super appearance.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.