BSP-03 Blockbusting All Blacks ‘Bus’ tipped for France

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ZCZC

BSP-03

RUGBYU-NZL-FRA-SAVEA

Blockbusting All Blacks ‘Bus’ tipped for France

WELLINGTON, June 15, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – The prospect of formidable New Zealand
wing Julian “The Bus” Savea joining French club Toulon next season was
welcomed Friday by France captain and Toulon centre Mathieu Bastareaud.

New Zealand Rugby has refused to comment on reports that the prolific try-
scorer, with 46 tries from 54 Tests, was headed offshore.

But Bastareaud applauded the move with Savea expected to head to France
after the Super Rugby season.

“This is big news for us, one of the best wingers in the world, I’m just
happy for the club,” Bastareaud, who is also the Toulon captain, said as he
prepared to lead France in the second Test against the All Blacks in
Wellington on Saturday.

Savea, 27, last played for the All Blacks in the third Test against the
British and Irish Lions last year.

There are vacancies looming at Toulon with the departure of Fijian Semi
Radradra and former All Blacks centre Ma’a Nonu.

BSS/AFP/RY/12:32 hrs