Hurricanes coach explains snubbing of top France-eligible lock prospect

Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw has moved to allay concerns about New Zealand losing French-eligible lock Patrick Tuifua after he was not named in their Super Rugby squad on Tuesday.

The New Caledonian native arrived in New Zealand at 15 years old to pursue his rugby career but his dual eligibility saw him turn out for France U20, where he starred.

Despite being chased by Top 14 clubs, the 1.91m giant opted to stick with the New Zealand system and commit to the Hawke's Bay Magpies, an aligned Hurricanes feeder province.

Laidlaw gave the reasons why Tuifua was not selected to play Super Rugby in 2025.

"We took a rugby sevens group to the Mount to play a tournament and he was part of it so he is clearly in our plans," Laidlaw explained.

"At only 20 years old, he has been slowed down by an injury and has played very little in the NPC.

"The level is high, and with the quality of our back rowers like Arese Poliko, who is a little more advanced in his development, the competition is tough."

Taranaki Bulls loose forward Arese Poliko was signed after his impressive season, while in the second row the Hurricanes snapped up young lock Tom Allen from the New Zealand U20s.

Ex-Highlanders lock Will Tucker and ex-Crusaders lock Zach Gallagher also signed with the club, joining Turbos lock Josh Tuala and veteran Isaia Walker-Leawere on the roster.

Tuifua played in three NPC fixtures for Hawkes Bay as injury prevented him from getting more game time, however Laidlaw said he would undertake pre-season training with the Hurricanes.

"However, we see a great future for Patrick. Our mission is to train him in the best possible way, ensuring that his body and mind are ready. The pre-season will teach him a lot about what optimal preparation should be."