Collins handed Super Rugby contract

Former Scarlets back Michael Collins has been handed a Super Rugby contract with the Auckland-based Blues side for next year.

After a season with the Scarlets in which he scored three tries in 17 appearances — including a match-winning double against Ulster in Belfast — Collins returned to honour his provincial contract with Otago, where he has been one of the stars of their Mitre 10 Cup campaign,  playing in Otago's 21-14 Mitre 10 Cup win over Manawatu.

The 23-year-old is qualified to play for Wales - his late grandfather is from Llanelli and he holds a British passport.