Piutau ‘didn’t want to go back’ to NZ

Editor

Former All Blacks utility-back Charles Piutau has said putting family first and playing in Europe was not a difficult decision as opposed to attempting to earn an All Blacks recall.

The 25-year-old moves from Ulster to Bristol next season and will become one of rugby's highest earners according to a Press Association report.

He did chat to New Zealand Rugby about a possible Super Rugby return before his switch to England.

"After catching up with people in the union it became clear that I didn't want to go back," he told the agency.

"So after that, it was an easy option for me to stay in the north."

The 17-Test All Black admitted he loved the All Blacks jersey and what it stood for.

"But when it comes to a place when you can provide for your family and there's a better opportunity, to me it was an easy decision. I'll always choose my family over anything else," added Piutau.

"I'm so thankful for everything that happened in New Zealand, but as well as wanting to provide for my family, I also wanted to experience this side of the world." 

Piutau will be playing alongside older brother Siale at Bristol and will be coached by former Blues mentor Pat Lam.

The younger Piutau has also joined the players' board of Pacific Rugby Players' Welfare (PRPW), whose aim is to further the interests of Pacific Islanders based in Europe.

"Joining PRPW is a chance for me hopefully to give back to the Pacific Islands community in a small way," he said.

"For players to know they have a support network and a voice when playing in Europe, I think that's important."