Ihaia West signs for Hurricanes

Hawke’s Bay & Blues flyhalf Ihaia West has signed a one-year deal with the Hurricanes.

The 25-year-old will join the club for the 2018 season in what will be a homecoming of sorts for the former Napier Boys High School star.

West was a Hurricanes Development player in 2014 and has been a regular match winner for the Hawke’s Bay Magpies over recent seasons with his sharp running game and reliable goal kicking.

After four seasons and 43 appearances with the Blues he brings considerable Super Rugby experience to the Hurricanes where he will be coached by his former New Zealand Under 20s coach Chris Boyd.

“I have decided it’s time for a new challenge and thanks to the Hurricanes management I have the opportunity to be involved with a strong and successful team," West said.
 

Hurricanes head coach Boyd said he was looking forward to working with West again.
 
“Ihaia has always been a very talented player. I enjoyed coaching him in the New Zealand Under 20s back in 2012 and since then he’s built up a lot of experience with Hawke’s Bay, the Blues and also the Maori All Blacks.
 
 
West’s signing comes as another Hurricanes first five Otere Black leaves the club.