Blake Gibson signs with the Hurricanes

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Coach Leon MacDonald signalled after the game that Gibson, 26, was moving on from his home franchise, and it was announced on Thursday that he would be part of the Hurricanes in the future.

Blake played 54 times for the Blues, was co-captain in 2019 but suffered from frustrations caused by injuries throughout his six years in the side.

The former New Zealand Under-20 player burst onto the Super Rugby scene when scoring a stunning try by running over Highlanders defender, All Black Ben Smith on Eden Park.

But those injuries and the emergence of Dalton Papalii reduced the impact the former Saint Kentigern College could make during his time with the Blues.

Hurricanes forwards coach Chris Gibbes said Gibson would add valuable experience to the Hurricanes pack.

"We're excited by what Blake offers as a player, and his skill-set will complement our loose forward mix and the way we like to play.

"While he's still relatively young, he has plenty of experience, and we're looking forward to what he can bring to the squad next year," he said.

Gibson will join former All Blacks Owen Franks and Dominic Bird as additions to the Hurricanes squad.

Gibson said it was hard to leave the Blues, but a move to the Hurricanes was right for him.

"After seven seasons with the Blues, I'm excited for a new challenge with the Hurricanes in 2022.

"I've heard great things about the coaching group, and I like the look of the squad that's being put together.

"Hopefully, I can bring something new to the back row, and also plenty off the park," he said.