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‘I’m stoked to re-sign’: Ricky Riccitelli to remain with Blues
By Finn Morton
Following a sensational run of form in Super Rugby Pacific so far this season, hooker Ricky Riccitelli has officially re-signed with the Blues for another two years.
The Blues announced on Wednesday that the 92-game Super Rugby veteran will remain in Auckland until the end of the 2025 season.
Riccitelli started his Super Rugby career in the capital with the Hurricanes, and was part of the championship-winning squad in 2016.
But after playing more than 70 games for the Canes, Riccitelli made the move north in 2022. The dynamic No. 2 has become a matchday regular for the Blues – playing all but one game this season.
Having officially put pen to paper with the club, Riccitelli said he was “stoked” to have signed a two-year contract extension with the Blues.
“I’m stoked to re-sign with the Blues for another two years,” Riccitelli said in a statement.
“I’ve met some great blokes since making the move north in 2022 and I enjoy living with a few of the boys up here in Auckland.
“I’m grateful the Blues have shown a commitment to me for another two years.
“It’s been nice to see regular game time this season and I’m keen to build on those performances in the coming years at the Blues.”
The Blues are coming off a hard-fought win over the Hurricanes at Eden Park – with winger Mark Telea crossing for an unbelievable four-try haul.
Heading into the final round of the season, the Blues can clinch a spot in the top four heading into the playoffs with a win over the Highlanders.
“We’ve hit our straps in recent weeks and need a strong performance against the Highlanders to absolutely lock in home advantage for the playoffs,” he added.
“As a team we feel we are building nicely and need that momentum to continue as we get to the pointy end of the season.”
Riccitelli has played 21 matches for the Blues, and is expected to play a key role in their next couple of seasons after inking this deal.
Assistant coach Paul Tito described the hooker as “one of the hardest trainers in the group.”
“Ricky consistently demonstrates his value to the team,” Tito said.
“His ability at set piece, powerful ball carrying and work ethic make him an asset to our team. We are thrilled to have him on board for another two years and look forward to his continued growth and success.
“He’s one of the hardest trainers in the group and often one of the last to leave the training paddock.
“He brings energy and experience to our forward pack and works well with the younger members of the squad to improve their skills.”
Echoing the sentiment of those comments, Blues CEO Andrew Hore explained how Riccitelli was contributions to the clubs vision of “growing excellent rugby player and quality men.”
“We’ve been impressed by Ricky on and off the field in his time here at the Blues and are excited to see him further his rugby career with us,” Hore said.
“As an organisation we take great pride in growing excellent rugby players and quality men.
“This new deal solidifies Ricky’s dedication to the Blues and highlights his determination to contribute to the club’s success in the coming years.”
The Blues take on the Highlanders at Eden Park on Friday evening.
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