Weepu signs new Blues deal
July 22, 2012 12:36:27 UK
New Blues coach John Kirwan is delighted to be able to work with All Blacks pair Ma'a Nonu and Piri Weepu, after the players both re-signed for two years.
Piri Weepu has re-signed with the Blues for two years.The inking of Weepu's new contract ends an unsettled time for the former Hurricane, who had been linked with a return to Wellington.
Weepu turned up out of shape at the beginning of the season, but worked hard to lose weight and, by the end of the campaign, had turned his form around.
Kirwan is delighted to have the services of two key All Blacks.
"I'm excited about it," he said.
"They are two X-factor players and I'm really glad they are here. They are a huge part of the future."
They are two X-factor players and I'm really glad they are here. They are a huge part of the future.
John Kirwan
Kirwan wasn't sure whether Nonu had negotiated another leave option, but if the 30-year-old plays Super Rugby next year it will be in a Blues jersey.
He added: "Nonu might have an out clause. The All Blacks have sabbaticals in their contracts. But he is contracted through to next year at the Blues."
Weepu was brought in last year as someone who would be playing first-five and halfback as the franchise already had a quality No 9 in Alby Mathewson. Weepu did play a few games early in the season at first-five but over the second part of the campaign played exclusively at halfback.
Meanwhile, the All Blacks are 2.20 to win the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
Don't forget all of the fantastic markets we have to offer, including In-Play betting, can be accessed on your mobile phone with the new and improved Mobile at bet365.
View all Rugby Union betting