PEROFETA CELEBRATES OUTSTANDING SEASON WITH CONTRACT EXTENSION

Blues fans will be able to watch new-found favourite, Stephen Perofeta for at least another two years.

The 25-year-old newly-minted All Black has extended his contract with the Blues until at least 2024.

Perofeta was one of the stars of the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific season for the Blues, voted Players’ Player of the Year and Back of the Year. He was the equal top scorer of the competition with 129 points, and played in 14 games this season, taking his tally to 45 caps since joining the Blues in 2017.

The Whanganui player, who played for his home union while still at school, moved to Taranaki where he has played over 50 games, and will extend his stay for the union alongside fellow Blues players Beauden Barrett, Ricky Riccitelli and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepens.

Perofeta said he is excited to continue at the Blues.

“We are developing into a good team of good mates, but we also know there is a lot more to come yet and I’m keen to be part of it,” said Perofeta. “I have enjoyed this year and loved he relationship with Beauden, both at Taranaki and at the Blues.”

Blues head coach Leon MacDonald said the organisation was delighted that Perofeta will extend his stay with the club.

“Stevie’s development since he came the Blues five years ago has been remarkable, and off the back of an outstanding NPC for Taranaki, he has taken his game to another level, especially forming a unique partnership with Beauden,” said MacDonald.

“We are thrilled to have him on the field for at least two more years, while off it, he is one of the most popular people in our organisation, and a very good person who strongly represents our values.”