Otere Black has made his triumphant return to rugby just in time for the finals against the Highlanders on Saturday. This is their first shot at the Super Rugby title since their 2003 win against the Crusaders.
This news means that Tom Robinson who had played an important part in leading the team to victory during Black’s absence will not be able to play in the finals. This is in addition to the head injury sustained by last week’s match against the Force. He will be replaced by Akira Ioane.
Ofa Tuungafasi was another player who did not make the cut due to an injury and will be going in for surgery ahead of the Rugby Championship.
Head coach Leon MacDonald was incredibly happy to have Black back on the team and in his customary position. While Black did sustain a minor leg injury on Tuesday, he made it through a full training session and has made a remarkable recovery with the help of the team’s medical staff. The addition of Akira Ioane further adds to the Blues’ edge as they prepare for the finals.
The team is heartbroken that Robinson will not be playing in the finals after playing such an important role in getting the team to this point. His contagious energy will be missed, and MacDonald will be challenging the team to play the way that Robinson would.
The final is expected to be a high-energy, adrenaline-packed game that will have supporters across the globe on the edge of their seats.
For those interested in rugby betting, the return of Otere Black adds a significant dynamic to consider. NZ betting sites are likely to see a surge in activity as fans place their bets on the upcoming Super Rugby final.
| # | Site | Bonus | Bet | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Betway |  | 5/5 | Up to $60 NZD | Bet now Review |
More About Gary Hicks
When it comes to knowing what’s going on, on the track, field or any other sporting arena, Gary Hicks is your man. With an almost unrivalled passion for journalism, sports and betting Gary decided to combine his love of all 3 and share his expertise with the world.
In the last few years Gary has risen through the ranks and prides himself on always keeping a finger on the pulse of what’s hot and happening in the sports betting world. Gary is the resident news expert at OnlineBettingNZ.co.nz and his articles make for invaluable fodder for any avid punter.
You May Also Like:
SA Six Nations Plan Could Spark Bidding War
If South Africa were to join the Six Nations, such a move could potentially spark a bidding war to host the British & Irish Lions tour in 2033. The list ….
Kawa Leauma Dies After Freak Accident
Tragic news confirmed on Wednesday is that New Zealand lock Kawa Leauma has died of the head injuries sustained during an accident in Amsterdam in the Netherlands. The Spanish Rugby ….
Kawa Leauma Suffers Serious Head Injuries
New Zealand rugby player Kawa Leauma is reportedly in a critical condition in hospital after falling eight metres. Leauma, who is undergoing treatment in a hospital in Amsterdam, is said ….
Quade Cooper May Soon Call Australia Home
Wallabies star Quade Cooper told the media this week that he will be taking another citizenship test– a test that will hopefully allow him to finally call Australia his home. ….
World Rugby Says About Dementia
World Rugby has reportedly now told players that head impacts and concussions aren’t the only factors known to contribute to the early onset of dementia. The organisation allegedly said this ….