Posts tagged Brent Wilson

I’ve talked about the amount of departures from New Zealand rugby that have happened over the past 12 months. And there are more planned after the World Cup.

• More and more players announce their departure plans
• Many more have made their move away

But it’s not all one-way traffic.

In 2011 we have seen the return of some very capable players to the ITM Cup (NPC). These guys are making a significant contribution and doing their part to enhance the great spectacle that is NPC rugby.

Tony Brown (Otago)

The ex-All Black returned to New Zealand to help out the Highlanders in this year’s Super Rugby competition after they were hit by a series of injuries.

Brown then took to the field for Otago in the ITM Cup and is going great guns for Otago challenging the line, directing play and creating opportunities for others.

His age is not a factor, he’s playing well and has been a large part of the Highlanders and Oago’s resurgence over the last 6 months. It’s great to have him back.

Willie Walker (North Harbour)

Willie Walker played for North Harbour against Bay of Plenty in the second match of the season and he went well, slotting into fullback like he never left.

Willie Walker - 1 of several Kiwis who have made a return to NPC this year

Bryce Williams (Northland)

The ex-Auckland lock is in the middle of the Taniwha pack. He’s doing the hard yards, calling the lineouts and getting around the paddock. Northland lost Dean Budd to Japan but Williams more than makes up for the gap left in the Taniwha lineout.

Williams may get an opportunity for the Blues in 2012

Jamie Nutbrown (Bay of Plenty)

When I heard Nutbrown was coming back to the Bay I assumed that the man who replaced him – Taniela Moa – was away off somewhere else. Moa had done very well for the Steamers last season, scoring a hatfull of tries and providing strong distribution from the base of the ruck.

But in a truncated season where teams play 3 times in the space of 7 days, a strong squad is critical so the Bay are lucky to have 2 highly competent number 9s this season.

Brent Wilson (North Harbour)

The rangy loose forward started the NPC season with a blinder in Dunedin. He has been away for a few years but hasn’t lost any sharpness. North Harbour need experience as they try and get out of a slump and huge number 8 Matt Luamanu needs a mentor who will keep him honest and focused.

Rudi Wulf (North Harbour)

Another player who was not away for long, Wulf has returned to provide much needed penetration in the struggling North Harbour midfield. His strength, speed and good form should see him return to the Blues in next season’s Super Rugby competition.

Dave Bright (Tasman)

The hard working loose forward is somewhat of a professional rugby journeyman who plays in both hemispheres. He was last in Tasman in 2009 and is a welcome addition this season providing go forward and hardened experience.

Reuben Thorne

Canterbury legend and ex-All Black captain, Reuben Thorne is back in the red and black jersey helping the young Canterbury side as they compete in a tough competition with none of their All Blacks. He’s been coming off the bench but the experience on and off the field is invaluable for Canterbury as they look to bring on their next tier players.

Not every returning ex-pat has made a great contribution however …