All Blacks international winger Rudolffe Wulf returns to New Zealand Rugby Union
Rudolffe Nicholas Wulf commonly known as, Rudi Wulf, has re-signed with the Super Rugby franchise Blues to mark his return to the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU). Officials at club have confirmed the contract of the All Blacks international winger from Toulon,
in a statement released on their website on Thursday, June 2.
NZRU General Manager of Professional Rugby, Neil Sorensen, has welcomed the return of the winger. He said, “Rudi has been a top class player and we welcome him back to New Zealand rugby with anticipation of more fantastic rugby from him.”
Blues’ coaching staff has also welcomed the return of the utility back. Wulf is a versatile player and he has proved his skills at both winger and fullback position.
Blues head coach Pat Lam has praised Wulf’s abilities and termed him a great player. He said, “He is a dynamic player, full of speed and skill and an outstanding team man. We were so sorry to see him head offshore last year and to have him come back to the
Blues is fantastic news for us.”
The 27-year-old Wulf started his professional senior rugby career for his provincial side North Harbour in 2003. He remained with North Harbour until 2010 and he made 57 appearances for the provincial side
Samoa born Wulf made his Super Rugby debut for Blues during the 2005 Super Rugby championship. He played 43 games for Blues and scored 90 points that includes 18 tries. In 2009, he was named as Blues Player of the Year, the award he shares with the Blues’
captain Keven Mealamu. In 2010, he joined French top 14 side Toulon.
Blues Assistant coach, Liam Barry, has termed Wulf a crowd favourite and said he brings sensational atmosphere to the game. Liam Barry will take over the role of the North Harbour head coach later in the year and has said that Wulf is an important player
for his side.
Wulf made his international debut for the All Blacks in 2008. He played his first game against touring England at Christchurch on June 21, 2008. He has made four international appearances and his return to NZRU might earn him a call up in the All Blacks’
2011 Rugby World Cup squad.
Wulf has expressed his delight on his return to the NZRU. He expressed hope that he could help the Blues and Northern Harbour in their efforts to earn the Super Rugby and ITM Cup titles respectively.
Wulf further added, “To be returning to play amongst old mates in a team I so enjoyed being a part of is really exciting for me. I can’t wait to get back on the field in a Blues jersey.”
Fans will see Wulf in action during the 2011 Super Rugby championship.
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