Rene Ranger
Explosive attacking back Rene Ranger is to return to the Blues next season and will be available to play for North Harbour in the ITM Cup this year.
The 28-year-old has gained an early release from his contract with French club Montpellier after 2 seasons.
Ranger scored 25 tries in his 65 Super Rugby caps for the Blues, enjoying 6 caps for the All Blacks. He has become a fan favourite with Jake White’s Montpellier side, scoring 6 tries in his first 15 games and helping the team enjoy a strong season in the European Club Championships this year.
He said his return to New Zealand is primarily for family reasons.
“Family comes first and that is the big motivator to return. I want to be able to help my mom more,” Ranger said.
Once the decision was made, it was not difficult to seek out the Blues.
“I started my Super career with them and they have always been close to me. JK (Blues coach Sir John Kirwan) has always backed me and motivated me to be my best.”
He is excited about the prospect of returning to a team he believes is on the improve.
“They are a quality side but execution is letting them down so far. Hopefully I can play a positive role because backs get excited with the sort of front foot ball the Blues are getting.
“I will come home a better rugby player. I am mentally stronger and I’ve learned a lot that I can bring back into the Blues environment.”
He is also firmly focussed on again pushing for an All Blacks spot in the future.
“It’s great news that Rene has chosen to resume his rugby career back in New Zealand,” said New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Steve Tew. “He’s a classy player with the ability to surprise that makes him a favourite of fans. He will have learnt much from his time in France and is sure to be an exciting draw card for the Blues and North Harbour.”
Sir John Kirwan said Ranger’s return will bolster the team with star-quality on the field and a fan-favourite off it.
“Rene made his mark on the game in this country as a remarkable attacking player, always able to break tackles, often when there was nothing on,” Kirwan said.
“His experience in Europe will have helped further round his skills and add to his experience. With the likes of Charles Piutau, it will give us a potent attacking unit.”