Nepo Laulala: All Blacks front-row recommits to Blues and New Zealand Rugby

David Skippers
Nepo Laulala Blues Super Rugby TT 2021 - PA.jpg

The Blues have bolstered their forward stocks with the news that All Blacks front-row Nepo Laulala has re-signed with the Auckland-based club on a one-year deal.

The 31-year-old has made 99 Super Rugby appearances of which 26 of those were for the Blues and the other 73 for the Crusaders and the Chiefs.

He joined the Blues in 2021 and is part of a powerful front-row unit at the club along with Maori All Black Marcel Renata and fellow All Blacks Ofa Tuungafasi and Alex Hodgman.

Laulala made his Test debut in New Zealand’s 25-16 victory over Samoa in Apia in 2015 and is a younger brother of former All Blacks centre Casey.

Blues head coach Leon MacDonald believes the front-row’s experience is great to have around the team.

Invaluable player

“Nepo’s been an important part of our squad since he returned home with his family last year and he’s an invaluable part of our tight-five group,” he told the Blues’ official website.

“He’s a quiet family man with strong values but is also a strong contributor to our team discussions – we are pleased to have him back with us for 2023.”

New Zealand Rugby general manager professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum is delighted that Laulala has put pen to paper on a new deal and said he continues to be an excellent servant of New Zealand Rugby.

“Nepo’s built up a wealth of experience in a key position, including 42 Tests for the All Blacks while also performing at Provincial and Super Rugby level for the past decade.

“He’s played a key role for the Blues over the past two seasons and I’m sure will continue to do so in 2023.”

READ MORE: All Blacks: Legends claim Roger Tuivasa-Sheck needs to play multiple positions to retain his place in the squad