Super Rugby Aotearoa – Blues add another All Blacks accessory to their front row actions when Nepo Laulala returns home

All Blacks mainstay Nepo Laulala is moving north, signing a two-year deal with the Blues in Super Rugby.

Laulala, born in Samoa, educated in Auckland at Mt Albert Grammar and Wesley College, wanted to be closer to family in Auckland with his wife Loriana and son Cassius, and moved from the Chiefs, whom he joined in 2016.

“My wife and I felt it was the right time to reach out to our families in Auckland. I went to school in Auckland and all of our extended families are there,” Laulala said.

“Family is very important to us and even more so for Loriana to have support when I’m away.

“I want to thank the Chiefs for everything they have done for me.”

Laulala played 34 times for the Crusaders before joining the Chiefs, where he played 41 games as he progressed to achieve consistent national honors.

Laulala’s signing means the Blues will have four rowers from the All Blacks, with the 29-year-old joining Ofa Tuungafasi, Karl Tu’inukuafe and Alex Hodgman. All four will play in the Rugby Championship in Australia, with paternity leave granted to Laulala to delay his departure through the Tasman.

“I am excited to join the Blues and be able to train and play alongside Ofa, Alex and Karl, and I am looking forward to working with Ben Afeaki, Tom Coventry and the rest of the technical team,” Laulala said.

Blues head coach Leon MacDonald said Laulala’s move is one more boost for the team.

“Nepo is a powerful scrummager and has worked hard to improve his mobility and handling on the field,” said MacDonald.

“It will be great if the four All Blacks feed off each other, share information and collectively strive to keep improving.

“It will also give us the opportunity to keep the group fresh and excited each week.”

Laulala will continue to play for Counties Manukau, where his brothers Ray and Casey have played, while younger brother Luteru is on the Steelers’ team for this season’s Miter Cup 10.