Former All Black Julia Savea has revealed frustration over his departure from the Hurricanes, something he feels wasn't handled as professionally as it should've been.
The blockbuster winger was off contract at the end of last Super Rugby Pacific season and wasn't offered a new one, forcing him to look elsewhere.
Now that he has, he's feeling refreshed and re-energised, and ready to grab his opportunity with Moana Pasifika.
New year, new colours and Savea is all business, as he prepares for the next chapter in his career.
"This is my first time not playing with the 'Canes, so pretty excited and just looking forward to the opportunity," he told Newshub.
If Savea had his way, he would still be playing for the Hurricanes.
After expressing a desire to stay with the franchise he'd featured for on 153 occasions, scoring a record 60 tries, he found the desire to add to that number wasn't mutual.
"I was pretty pissed off, to be honest, but that's rugby and they've got a job to do," he said. "Just the process... they didn't let me know until later on and that's the biggest thing."
The Hurricanes previously admitted discussions were difficult and the change in coaching group added a complication, but Savea's now determined to show the Hurricanes what they've missed out on.
"I'm looking forward to the challenge and I guess I've got that game marked on my calendar as well."
He'll have a while to wait for that match-up, with Moana Pasifika not due to face the Hurricanes until round 13 in May.
Savea isn't the only new face, with Tana Umaga replacing Aaron Mauger as head coach. The former Blues coach is confident he can get the best out of his highly experienced winger.
"His ability to share those experiences with younger players and lead in that space, for us, was really important," said Umaga.
Savea is adamant: "I know what I'm capable of, I've been doing this a long time now."
Julian Savea is ready for Super Rugby redemption.
