A former Hurricanes captain could be set for a shock return in 2024 – a move that would go a long way to replacing departing star Ardie Savea.
With current captain Savea heading to Japan next year, the Hurricanes plan to fill his massive boots by luring England international Brad Shields home from Europe.
Shields played 103 games for the Hurricanes between 2012 and 2018 and was a key part of their only Super Rugby title triumph in 2016.
Eligible through his parents, the loose forward left New Zealand in 2018 to take up a lucrative deal with London Wasps and commit his international allegiance to England, who were coached by Eddie Jones at the time.
Hurricanes coach Jason Holland confirmed they are in talks with Shields about the possibility of signing him for 2024, and he was confident a deal could be struck.
The 31-year-old is currently playing for French club Perpignan. He joined them after Wasps went into administration last year.
“He’s always been one of the superstars of our environment and has got a good sense of humour and works really hard. He’s a pretty special player around his physicality, his ability in the carry and the tackle
“It’s exciting to get a Hurricane who has been there and done that, and we know is a proud Hurricane, back into the environment.”
Shields is due back in New Zealand when the French Top 14 wraps up in June.
