Julian Savea has committed his immediate rugby future to New Zealand by agreeing to play for the Wellington Lions in the Mitre 10 Cup.
Savea, who has dropped off the radar for the All Blacks over the past year, is reportedly being eyed up by a number of suitors in Europe.
But for now at least he’ll be staying in his home country for the domestic tournament, with Wellington Lions coach Chris Gibbes delighted.
“You can’t put a value on how much a player like Julian can bring to a squad in this competition,” Gibbes told Stuff regarding the news.
“We saw it last year with what he contributed on and off the field and we are delighted he has again put himself forward to be one of the squad’s key leaders.”
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Savea added: “I’m still really keen to be part of the set-up again and doing my best to contribute as much as I can to the squad.
“The desire I have to play for Wellington is still really strong as is my determination to continue to play well in New Zealand.”