HAMISH BIDWELL One of the Magpies' new recruits is attempting to fly the coop before he's even played a game in Hawke's Bay. Former Marlborough, Otago and Highlanders winger Hayden Pedersen was one of the top signings announced by the Hawke's Bay Rugby Union a few months ago, as the the KeltCapital Magpies prepare for their first season in the new Air New Zealand Cup. Now it seems as though Pedersen is seeking a release from his two-year contract with the HBRU to take up a lucrative overseas offer - believed to be from a team in Italy. "I'd rather not comment on it at this stage but I understand that Hayden has had a look at another contract," said HBRU chief executive Mike Bishop. "I am in discussions with his agent at the moment and have pointed out that Hayden has signed a two-year contract with us, which we want to see honoured." Bishop said talks between the agent, the HBRU and the New Zealand Rugby Union are likely to be ongoing as Hawke's Bay attempt to ensure Pedersen's deal with them remains binding. The winger was due to make his debut for the Clive club this Saturday, but when he did not show for last night's training session, the club took that to mean that he had decided to take up an offer in Italy.
