Rugby: Some consolation for Blues

Charles Piutau. File photo / Brett Phibbs

Charles Piutau will be lost to the All Blacks next year, but maybe not the Blues.

And, once the franchise gets over the shock of Piutau's about-turn on his contract extension - he has decided to sign with Ulster in Ireland despite indications his future was in New Zealand - the Blues could look to get one last season out of him.

It is understood that Piutau is keen to play at least part of the 2016 season before he moves to Belfast to link with former Blues players Jared Payne and Nick Williams.

There is still the question of whether New Zealand Rugby will allow the 23-year-old to play for the Blues but it is understood the franchise is keen to hold on to him.

The Blues would do well to keep all the talent they can after six defeats from six matches this year. Fullback Piutau, their best back by far this season, can still potentially offer a lot to the franchise, which will be hoping his combination with the returning Rene Ranger next year can get the Blues moving in terms of results.

Chief executive Michael Redman was unavailable yesterday. Instead, a release was issued saying more would be known today.

"Once Charles has made his position clear in terms of future direction concerning our club, then the Blues will be in a better position to be able to comment," it said.

Jerome Kaino played for the Blues in 2012 before his move to Japan to play for Toyota, but it was the recurrence of a shoulder injury early that season which effectively prompted his move. Kaino, who starred for the All Blacks at the World Cup the previous year, needed a shoulder reconstruction which effectively ruled him out of the All Blacks so he took up a lucrative two-year offer, which, in hindsight, has probably lengthened his career.

Kaino, 32 next Monday, has just re-signed with the Blues and New Zealand Rugby for a further three years.

The news of Piutau's move has taken the gloss off that announcement, although it is understood loose forward Steven Luatua is about to recommit to the franchise and New Zealand Rugby.