BLUES SIGN HOOKER BRADLEY SLATER

The Blues have signed skilful hooker Bradley Slater through to the end of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season.

Slater, 26, arrives with a wealth of experience from the Chiefs, where he notched up 68 caps since making his debut in 2019.

A product of New Plymouth Boys’ High School and Taranaki Rugby, Slater was part of the New Zealand U20 squad in 2019 and rapidly rose to prominence under the coaching of Warren Gatland.

“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 said he’s looking forward to the next challenge in his rugby journey.

“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.”

Slater will join the Blues for pre-season later this year ahead of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.