Record-breaking All Black with ‘rare talent’ makes decision over his future

Hoskins-Sotutu-on-the-charge-for-the-Blues

Number eight Hoskins Sotutu has renewed his contract with the Blues keeping him in New Zealand until at least 2026 in a massive bit of business for the club.

The All Black has been a high-profile star for several seasons now and has found a purple patch this season as he leads the Super Rugby Pacific try-scoring charts with nine – a record for a Blues forward in a single season.

Sotutu has been outstanding in every appearance using his impressive pace and massive frame as a weapon on attack. His form is so strong that new All Blacks boss Scott Robertson could even consider shifting Ardie Savea to flank to accommodate the Blue.

Keep going

That of course remains to be seen but for now, Sotutu is delighted to have penned a new deal with the club and is excited to keep going.

“I’m incredibly proud and honoured to extend my time with the Blues. This club means a lot to me, and I’m committed to contributing my best both on and off the field in the coming seasons,” said Sotutu.

“This club feels like home to me, I’ve got a lot of mates here who I’ve played many seasons of rugby alongside. We’re building nicely this season and know we have a massive match this weekend against the Hurricanes – it promises to be a great game in the afternoon sun.”

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Special star

General Manager of the Blues Murray Williams praised Sotutu’s talent and underlined how happy the club is with the deal.

“Hoskins is a rare talent and his form in the 2024 season to-date has been without peer. We’re thrilled to have him continue with the club as a cornerstone of our squad,” said Williams.

Head coach Vern Cotter shared the same sentiment and went more into detail as to why Sotutu is so valuable for the Blues.

“Hoskins can do things no other player in his position can do with ball in hand. His five-point contributions have helped us build scoreboard pressure and he’s getting regular turnovers at lineout and tackle situations,” said Cotter.

“He’s building his performance from game-to-game and his consistency each week is remarkable considering he’s playing big minutes.

“I have no doubt he will help his team mates seek a top performance this weekend.”