Dalton Papali'i hoping Blues days aren't done despite broken jaw

“He’s the blood and guts man. ‘Don’t draw me too many diagrams or spend too much time on the computer, just give me the ball or someone to tackle’. That’s what you need.

“You need warriors in your team, but other guys can step up now. Che Clark, Torian Barnes and Malachi (Wrampling) have got that in them as well.

“We feel for Dalts, if it’s his last game for the Blues.”

The France-bound flanker sustained the injury early in Friday’s derby, and it was his opposite, fellow All Black Leicester Fainga’anuku, who dealt the damage with a hard carry. Papali’i played through the pain before leaving the field in the 11th minute.

The 28-year-old has represented New Zealand 36 times since his 2018 debut, but fell down the pecking order under Scott Robertson despite wearing the No.7 jersey in the former coach’s first game at the helm in 2024.

Papali’i announced his departure from the Blues in February, and is joined by fellow All Black Hoskins Sotutu and AJ Lam as major exits from the club.

“This club means everything to me. I grew up dreaming of wearing the Blues jersey and representing my country. I’ve been lucky enough to live that dream for a long time,” Papali’i said.

“The Blues gave me my chance, backed me, and helped me become the player and person I am. This was a really hard decision, but the opportunity in France is something that works well for where I’m at in my career with my young family.

“I’m fully committed to finishing my time here the right way. I love this club, the people, and our supporters, and I’ll keep giving everything I’ve got into the season ahead.”