2 Aug 2011

Hore signs with Highlanders

11:00 am on 2 August 2011

The All Black hooker Andrew Hore will play for the Highlanders in next year's Super Rugby competition after signing a one-year deal with the southern franchise.

The 52-test veteran was forced out of the Hurricanes after coach Mark Hammett cut the Taranaki rake and All Black midfielder Ma'a Nonu telling the franchise stalwarts they didn't feature in his plans for 2012.

The relocation represents a move 'home' of sorts - Hore has a farm in Maniototo but has spent the past decade playing away from the Otago region.

The rugby player come farmer is the latest in a string of high-profile Hurricanes who've signed for other franchises next year in the wake of a tumultuous 2011 campaign under new Hammett.

All Blacks Piri Weepu (Blues), Ma'a Nonu (Blues) and Aaron Cruden (Chiefs) have all decided to ply their trade elsewhere in New Zealand while prop Neemia Tialata is heading overseas.

All Blacks wing Hosea Gear could also head to the Highlanders and is rated a 50-50 chance of doing so, while fellow New Zealand winger Cory Jane is yet to recommit to the Wellington based franchise.