'Another James Lowe or Gibson-Park': Irish glee as New Zealand lose 'next Dan Carter'

The loss of Hurricanes' first five-eighth Aidan Morgan to Ireland club Ulster on a two-year deal was met with excitement and resignation from both countries.

The reaction from New Zealand fans was one of resignation, acceptance of Morgan's move after sitting on the sidelines with the Hurricanes behind other first fives.

After moving down from Auckland, for most of his stint with the club he bid his time behind Jackson Garden-Bachop and then the returning Brett Cameron, while at times Ruben Love played at No 10.

In his 25 Super Rugby caps over three seasons he started 20 times, often against the weaker teams as part of a wider squad rotation. He flashed playmaking ability, elusive running and excellent goal kicking as a rounded first five prospect.

Hurricanes' fans reacted with understanding to the deal given the lack of game time, but were saddened by the 'big loss'. One fan felt that they had lost 'our next Dan Carter' from a player dubbed as a future All Black.

The Irish reaction was understandably quite chuffed at having an Irish-qualified prospect at just 22-years-old land with Ulster.

After the success of Ireland internationals James Lowe, halfback Jamison Gibson-Park and Bundee Aki, all signed out of New Zealand Super teams, expectations are high that Morgan will become the next gem.

The coup was described as "huge", potentially a "great signing" for a young player with so many games under his belt already.

The loss of Morgan is the second flyhalf under the age 25 in New Zealand to take opportunities abroad, with Crusader Fergus Burke inking a deal with Saracens as Owen Farrell's successor.

Last year the Hurricanes signed New Zealand U20s fullback Harry Godfrey to a two-year deal until the end of 2025, while one-cap All Black Brett Cameron has been a standout performer this season.

The Hurricanes announced a new deal for Cameron last week until the end of 2026, which painted a crowded picture for Morgan to contend with.