Blues and All Blacks back-row Akira Ioane admits his future is still up in the air despite preparing to mark a special Super Rugby milestone for the Auckland-based outfit.
Ioane is set to make his 100th appearance for the Blues in a crucial derby against the defending champion Crusaders in Christchurch on Saturday.
Yet to make a decision
Ioane revealed that he hasn’t decided whether he will further his career in New Zealand or join the likes of Sam Whitelock, Beauden Barrett, Richie Mo’unga and Aaron Smith, who are set to head overseas after this year’s Rugby World Cup in France.
“I haven’t thought about anything yet,” he told Newshub.
“I’m just trying to make sure I play well here and the rest will take care of itself. It’s just more around what I want and what I want to do going forward.”
Last month, his younger brother, Rieko, became the latest All Black to re-sign with New Zealand Rugby (NZR), agreeing a new contract until 2027.
Since their high school days, the Ioane brothers have spent their rugby careers playing in the same environment. The duo played club rugby together before representing Auckland in New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship, the Blues in Super Rugby and the All Blacks at Test level. They were also part of the New Zealand Sevens set-up at the same time.
Akira said, however, that Rieko’s decision to recommit would have no bearing on what he decides to do.
“I’ve spent nine years playing with him, so I think I’ve had enough,” he joked.
“I’d love to play with him more but it’s just whatever the future holds for me. I don’t know yet, so I’m just looking forward to enjoying the season.”
The powerful back-row was a sensation when he started his career as a 19-year-old with the Blues in 2015.
It hasn’t always been easy for Ioane, who’s experienced several ups and downs with his form on the pitch. He has already made 22 Test appearances and said he has evolved a lot as a player and a person over the years.
“[The ride] has been bumpy as well, but I have done a lot of growing as a person and as a player as well,” he said.
“My small circle, my family and my friends and my partner really helped. I’m just happy to be where I am now.”
Preparing for a special achievement
Ioane admitted that playing his 100th match for the Blues will be a “special” achievement for both himself and those close to him.
“Not just for me, but for my family as well, being born and bred here,” he added.
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“You sort of dream about doing these things and to play 100 games on Saturday… pretty special.”