All Blacks centre Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to leave Blues at end of 2023 season

Blues have announced that All Blacks centre Roger Tuivasa-Sheck will be leaving the Super Rugby club at the end of 2023 season.

The 29-year-old will switch code back to rugby league where he will rejoin New Zealand Warriors in 2024.

Having represented Blues Under 18 side earlier in his career, he joined the Blues for the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific season making his debut against the Hurricanes.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time here at the Blues and made some great mates over the past two seasons,” Tuivasa-Sheck said.

“Out of respect for the Blues, my team-mates, coaches and of course the fans, I’m not going into too much detail about my next move.

"One thing was clear to me though, once I knew what my future held, I wanted to announce this and quickly shift the focus back to this season.”

He has played three tests for the All Blacks after making his debut in last July's test series against Ireland and now will join the NRL team on a three-year contract.

Blues head coach Leon MacDonald heaped praises on Tuivasa-Sheck and is hoping for him to complete the season on a high.

“It takes a special kind of athlete to do what Roger has done. He was really finding his feet in the midfield early on this season before picking up an injury. The work ethic and diligence he’s put into his craft in his time with the Blues is certainly something he can be proud of.

“He will still have a role to play for us in 2023 as the team look to build some momentum into the campaign and push for home advantage in the knockout stages of the competition.

"I wish him all the best for the next chapter in his journey and I’ll be watching on with interest!”