Woodcock returns to the Blues

Editor

New Zealand prop Tony Woodcock is returning to the Blues after committing to the franchise for the 2014 Super Rugby season.

New Zealand prop Tony Woodcock is returning to the Blues after committing to the franchise for the 2014 Super Rugby season.

The most capped All Black prop (104 Test caps) and just the second player to reach 100 games for the Blues, the 32-year-old World Cup winner said he was looking forward to returning to the franchise after playing last season for the Highlanders.

“I'm really looking forward to moving home and being closer to my family,” Woodcock told the Blues' official website

“I want to finish off my rugby at the Blues where it all started so I'm excited to head back and re-join the team.”

Blues head coach Sir John Kirwan said he was thrilled to welcome back a player with Woodcock's credentials and vast experience.

“I'm really excited to have Woody back at the Blues,” Kirwan said.

“We're trying to build a lasting franchise so we've got a lot of young guys and to have someone with his experience is fantastic. I see him as one of our people – he's had his OE and now he's back so I think he'll add plenty of value to this team.”

The 2014 Blues squad will be formally announced on October 30.