Blues sign first-fives Otere Black and Bryn Gatland

Hurricanes 1st-five Otere Black in action against the Lions. Photo / Brett Phibbs

The Blues have signed Otere Black and Bryn Gatland as their first fives alongside Stephen Perofeta for next year's Super Rugby season.

Black joins from the Hurricanes after two years spent as back-up to Beauden Barrett, while Gatland has been a replacement for the Blues this season.

As reported by the Herald last month, Black has signed until 2019, while Gatland joins on a one-year deal.

Black and Gatland replace Piers Francis, who is heading to Northampton and Ihaia West, who will switch places with Black and head to the Hurricanes.

Perofeta could be the talented, commanding No10 the Blues have been craving for years; since the reign of Carlos Spencer in 2005 to be exact. But Blues coach Tana Umaga won't want to rush him given his age but more particularly his ankle injury which has cut down on his training and playing time.

Black could give Perofeta that time and space. Understandably, Black's opportunities under All Blacks No10 Barrett at the Hurricanes have been limited. He has played nine matches this season but only for an average of 28 minutes per game.