The Hurricanes have confirmed the recruitment of All Blacks veteran Owen Franks for the next two years.
The prop forward has spent the last two years plying his trade in the UK Premiership with Northampton, but will likely conclude his career at home in Super Rugby.
As Newshub revealed this week, Franks will play for the Hurricanes next season, with the franchise announcing the 33-year-old is locked in through 2023.
The Hurricanes fended off the Crusaders for Franks' signature - he last played Super Rugby with the red-and-blacks, when they beat the Jaguares in the 2019 final.
Frank's UK stint was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the 108-test All Black is "excited" to return home to finish his career.
"My family and I are looking forward to a new challenge and being back in New Zealand, and closer to friends and family is also important," he says.
"I am very motivated to play at the highest level again, and I am looking forward to working with the Hurricanes players and coaching teams, and pushing for success in 2022 and 2023."
The Hurricanes have enjoyed a busy few weeks, despite the loss of barnstorming midfielder Ngani Laumape to France. They have re-signed Dane Coles and All Black halfback TJ Perennara, as well as recruiting former Crusaders stars Franks and lock Dominic Bird.
Coach Jason Holland is naturally delighted to have a player of Franks’ calibre and experience joining the squad.
"His record speaks for itself, and what he has been able to achieve is a measure of his quality and professionalism," Holland says.
"Owen's experience will be invaluable, not just for the younger players in our squad, but our group as a whole."
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