Blues lure rising Chiefs star Malachi Wrampling north

The Blues have landed the signature of former New Zealand U20 star Malachi Wrampling, who will bolster the 2024 champions’ loose forward stocks through to at least 2027.

The bruising No. 8 made his Super Rugby Pacific debut for the Chiefs in round four of the recent season, but was limited to just one appearance for the club as a trio of All Blacks loosies and a hamstring complaint kept him out of the matchday 23.

The Baby Blacks’ 2024 campaign introduced Wrampling to the world, with barn-stomping performances throughout The Rugby Championship U20 tournament on Australia’s Sunshine Coast establishing him as one to watch in the years to come. His U20 journey was, however, cut short by an injury in the final week against Australia.

Wrampling’s signature brings a hugely promising No. 8 back over the Bombays after the Blues lost superstar prospect Wallace Sititi to the Chiefs ahead of the 2024 campaign.

“Malachi is a powerful, dynamic loose forward who’s only just scratched the surface of his potential,” Blues GM of Rugby Murray Williams said.

“He’s the kind of player you want in your environment. Hungry to learn, fearless on the field, and built for the modern game.”

Wrampling, who leaves his older brother Gideon at the Chiefs, couldn’t wait to get started in Auckland.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity and can’t wait to get into it. The Blues play a physical brand of rugby, and I’m looking forward to learning from the experienced players in the squad and continuing to grow my game.”

The young gun isn’t the only talent to be lured north, though. Chiefs hooker Bradley Slater will make the shift to Auckland to help fill the impending void left by Ricky Riccitelli.

“Brad is a hardened Super Rugby player who brings an edge to our front row, along with great leadership qualities. He’s tough, smart and a great set-piece technician,” Blues GM of Rugby Murray Williams said.

Slater has had to bide his time behind All Black Samisoni Taukei’aho and newly named All Black Brodie McAlister at the Chiefs, making clear the logic in his move.

“The Blues have built something pretty special in recent years, and I’m excited to contribute to that. It’s a fresh start, and I’m keen to get stuck in.”