Moana Pasifika is pleased to announce the signing of 2015 Rugby World Cup winner, All Black #1111, Julian Savea. Affectionately known as ‘the bus’ to rugby fans around the world, the 54-test All Black has etched his name into rugby folklore with his explosive running game and ability to break through the toughest of defensive lines. As a proud son of Samoa, Savea will don the ocean blue Moana Pasifika jersey for the 2024 DHL Super Rugby Pacific Season.
His devastating style of play on the wing made him a world rugby sensation, scoring 46 international tries for the All Blacks. Savea’s last test cap came in 2017 against the British and Irish Lions, making him eligible to switch his international allegiance to the Manu Samoa under the new World Rugby ruling. He is the latest exciting prospect under new Head Coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga.
Born and raised in Wellington, the 33-year-old has forged a remarkable legacy since his debut for the Hurricanes in 2011. He has scored a Super Rugby record-breaking 60 tries in 153games, also making him the most capped Hurricane in their 27-year franchise history.
Hailing from the villages of Siumu, Luatuanu’u, and Falesiu Uta in Samoa, Savea has garnered a large following in the Pacific since his storied professional rugby career began. Parents Lina and Masina Savea are both Samoan-born, having migrated to New Zealand in their youth, and have raised their sons Julian & Ardie to be proud of their Samoan heritage.
Savea’s pace, strength and ability to finish out wide will be a tremendous asset for Moana Pasifika on the field, but his impact off the field will also prove beneficial. With one of the most recognisable names in rugby, his injection into the Moana Pasifika community space will be inspirational to Pasifika rugby hopefuls in New Zealand and across the Pacific.
ENDS
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