Willis Halaholo has joined the Cardiff Blues family and is looking forward to pulling on the famous jersey for the first time.
The New Zealand-born centre, who won the Super Rugby title with the Hurricanes arrived in Wales on Sunday and is settling into life with his new team.
He is hoping to bring some of that good fortune to Wales’ Capital Region and has revealed the advice of former teammate Rey Lee-Lo was pivotal in his decision.
Halaholo said: “I asked around and the culture is good here, I was looking for a new challenge and hopefully I find that with the Blues.
“The main thing for me is family and Rey said how the Blues really looked after his. I like to play footie and would love to go anywhere but the main thing was family and the Blues looked after Rey and his family really well so that was a big point.
“As an individual I want to bring what I can within the Blues culture and team structure. I am willing to help out wherever the team need me.
“Right now I’m looking to learn the game here, it’s obviously different to the southern hemisphere but I want to build on this year’s success.”
Halaholo, who also played age grade rugby with Gareth Anscombe in New Zealand, enjoyed a breakthrough season with the Hurricanes.
He made 17 appearances for the title-winning franchise and was a mainstay in the centre. Now he is determined to bring that good form to Cardiff Blues.
Halaholo added: “It was a great feeling. Especially knowing I was coming here it was great to leave with a Super Rugby title under my belt. I’m hoping to bring some of that good luck fortune to the Blues.
“I learnt a lot. Playing at a high intensity level you learn a lot about yourself and what you need to work on.
“I like to play attacking rugby, I like to take risks while staying within the game plan. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
Halaholo could make his first regional appearance on Friday against the Scarlets. You can buy tickets now by clicking here.