Rugby: Savea re-signs with Wellington for two more years

Julian Savea. Photo / Brett Phibbs

All Black wing Julian Savea has ended weeks of speculation by pledging his allegiance to Wellington and the Hurricanes.

Savea yesterday signed on for two more years, and announced his intentions through Twitter last night. Savea, who has scored 14 tries in his 15 tests, said he had taken his time to consider his options, but it came down to his home province winning out.

"I grew up in Wellington, I've played all of my rugby here, and it means a lot to be able to call myself a Wellington Lion and Hurricane.

"I'm excited about signing on for another two years," the 23-year-old said.

Wellington and Hurricanes chief executive James Te Puni said he was thrilled with Savea's decision.

"Julian is a homegrown talent and I am thrilled that he will be taking the field for both Wellington and the Hurricanes for the next two years."

Savea, the former International Rugby Board junior player of the year in 2010, had been courted by the Chiefs and the Crusaders, but said he was looking forward to renewing his commitment to the Hurricanes environment.

"There's a great culture building within the team and I know we all want to do big things this season.

"We all have that same goal," Savea said.

Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett was understandably a happy man.

"We've seen him grow and develop over the last two years through his involvement with the Hurricanes and the All Blacks, and we want that to continue.

"He's gone from being this quiet guy going about his job, to a real leader within our squad," Hammett said.

"Julian's an exciting player for the fans and that's an important part of it as well."