ULSTER HAVE TODAY confirmed the signature of All Black utility back Charles Piutau on a two-year deal.
The Auckland Blue has won 14 caps for New Zealand and is likely to add to that tally before he officially becomes an Ulster player on July 1 2016.
“It was a difficult decision to leave the Blues and New Zealand rugby as I have really enjoyed my time with them so far,” Piutau said in a statement released today.
“However, when I spoke with Ulster I was impressed with what they had to say and I am excited about their future plans.
“I am looking forward to moving to Belfast, experiencing a new culture and playing in the northern hemisphere. I can’t wait to get stuck in with my new teammates in July 2016.”
Meanwhile, team manager at Kingspan Stadium Bryn Cunningham says the Aucklander is perfectly suited to the Ulster Rugby model.
To secure someone of Charles’ ability is hugely exciting for us as it shows that the best players want to come and represent Ulster Rugby and that the province can attract world-class talent,” says Cunningham.
“Our aim is to produce local players with the ability to play for Ulster and Ireland and then supplement them with top-quality internationals. Charles, with his experience with the All Blacks, fits perfectly in that model.
“As he has shown for both the Blues and New Zealand, he has searing pace and great feet. He has an exceptional offloading game and he is rock-solid in defence. He also possesses leadership qualities and maturity beyond his years and that came across strongly in my conversations with him.
“We could not ask for a more rounded, professional person and I believe that he will add enormous value to our squad both on and off the pitch.”
Reports in New Zealand yesterday claimed Piutau would earn NZ$2 million on the initial outlay of his contract, a figure which would equate to €690.000 per annum.
Provinces are permitted four places for non-Irish qualified (NIQ) players. Ruan Pienaar is the only NIQ contracted beyond 2016 – accepting prop Wiehahn Herbst who is the province’s ‘project player’. The remaining two NIQ places are currently filled by Louis Ludik, Nick Williams and Franco van der Merwe (all expiring 2016).
The scheduled arrival of Piutau – who will turn 24 this October – would suggest that the fullback will be a like-for-like replacement for South African Ludik.
