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All Black Fekitoa confirms Toulon move
By Peter Thompson
Malakai Fekitoa has confirmed he will turn his back on Highlanders and New Zealand to join Toulon.
Speculation mounted over the powerful centre's future after he was left out of the All Blacks squad to face the British and Irish Lions, before being called up by Steve Hansen for the third Test following Sonny Bill Williams' suspension.
Fekitoa has now effectively ended his international career by agreeing a switch to the Top 14 on a two-year deal.
The 25-year-old posted on Instagram: "I wanted to let you all know that after a lot of thought I have decided to join Toulon (RCT) at the end of the year.
"It has been the hardest decision of my life to leave New Zealand, but after looking at all the things that are important to me I feel this is the right time for me personally and for my career.
"I especially want to thank NZR [New Zealand Rugby] and the All Blacks, the Highlanders and Auckland Rugby for all your support and development over the years.
"Most of all I want to thank my team-mates for all your support and friendships. Finally to my fans THANK YOU, it's been a hell of a ride.
"I'm blessed and thankful to play this game. Doesn't matter where I go to work. We still have a lot more to do. I hope to return one day with more experience and success."
Fekitoa, who has won 24 caps for the world champions, will start for Highlanders in their Super Rugby quarter-final against Crusaders on Saturday.
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I'd rate the brothers Hendricks a point or two lower. Jaden has really not delivered on his early promise and Jordan's kicking at posts was quite erratic. Amongst other things.
I was really surprised that DuhDuh was replaced and not Jordan. DuhDuh had a great game and just underlined his class in a backline that was not firing on all cylinders.
Damian Willemse was missed. Hopefully he'll be back to full fitness and have an injury free 2025 (and '26 and '27 and so on until he decides to retire to spend time with his grandchildren).
RG was great. What an athlete.
Very happy that Hanekom made his debut at last. He gave a good account of himself and will hopefully grow into his role on the international stage.
All things considered, this was another frustrating Bok performance. Even though it was a comfortable win, it wasn't a commanding win. This Welsh team should've been put away by a far larger margin.
But I have faith in Dr Rassie. He knows more than I do. Bring on 2027 😁
Go to commentsGo the AB's .. Probs win by about 30 I reckon ... Cheers ..
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