All Blacks back-row star Ardie Savea has admitted he would like to make the code switch from rugby union to rugby league at some point in his career.
The Hurricanes ace was talking on The Ice Project podcast and with his contract with New Zealand Rugby running out next year he has confirmed that he has debated making the change as early as then, noting that former All Black teammate Sonny Bill Williams is an inspiration.
“100 per cent I want to play rugby league, I think they (the players) do a lot more in terms of off the field stuff. And also, just a new challenge. I want to test myself. Learning a whole new game and seeing if I can dominate or, play the way I play in union, that excites me. Seeing guys like Sonny do it kind of plays on my mind a bit. Strategically I would want to got to a team that was dominating, like the Storm or Roosters. It sucks that I got this injury because I was low key thinking about it (switching to league) for next year,” he said.
At only 26, it would be a huge call for Savea, who is one of the best players in the world, receiving a nomination for World Player of the Year in 2019.
However, he seems to have a plan set out in his mind with NRL side’s the Sydney Roosters and Melbourne Storm peaking his interest if he makes a move.
If he were to depart for the 13-man a-side sport it would be a major loss for the Canes, who have already lost Beauden Barrett ahead of this season and losing another key player could be critical.
Whatever happens next year, Savea will have his sights set on getting back to full fitness as soon as possible to help the Hurricanes climb the table following knee surgery last year which has seen him miss the start of the new Super Rugby season.
