The Blues utility back Piers Francis is returning to Britain.
Francis, who was born in England, has signed to play for Northampton.
Blues midfielder Piers Francis crashes over for one of the Blues five tries. Photo: Photosport
The 26 year old has split his time between the two countries, playing for Auckland, Waikato, Counties Manukau and the Blues since arriving in New Zealand in 2011.
He's played for the Blues for the last two years.
While he has thoroughly enjoyed his time in New Zealand, Francis is looking forward to returning to England and playing for the Saints in the Aviva Premiership.
"I will always be thankful for my opportunities in New Zealand, and to Tana Umaga for giving me my chance with Counties Manukau and with the Blues," he said.
"It's been a brilliant time for me in Auckland, but I'm now excited by the prospect of joining the Saints and getting to grips with the Premiership.
"Northampton is a massive club that's known the world over, and I'm joining a team with a huge amount of talent. It's going to be brilliant to be training and playing alongside the calibre of players in the squad.
"I can't wait to get started at Franklin's Gardens, but before that there's a lot of rugby still to be played in Super Rugby, and hopefully a game against the British and Irish Lions, too!"
Francis will leave after the Super Rugby season.
