1
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.
Trending on RugbyPass
2
Nemani Nadolo: 'Now I cut grass, do gardens, cut hedges for a living'
3
Exclusive RugbyPass interview: Toulon co-captain David Ribbans
4
Exclusive interview: Northampton's Matt Ferguson
5
Latest Comments
The prem games this season have mainly been great to watch , with the exception of Sale. So boring and predictable.
Let's have more of Bristol, Bath , Quins etc style of play.
Rugby needs expansive play to put more bums on seats . Not the dirge of rolling forward mauls constantly trying to bully their way over the line.
It has its place yes to draw the defence but the fans want to see more running rugby . Not win at any cost and sod the entertainment .
Go to commentsSo Borthwick should drop Marcus Smith? He's the odd one out, forcing the rest of the English backline into a gameplay they don't know. Replacing him with Fin or Ford makes everyone more likely to succeed.
Go to comments