Ricky Riccitelli of the Blues in the 2024 Super Rugby final. Photo: Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz
Blues hooker Ricky Riccitelli will leave the franchise at the conclusion of the Super Rugby Pacific season to take up a contract in France.
French outlet Riccitelli Le Midi Libre reported last year Riccitelli had signed with Top 14 club Montpellier.
Riccitelli joined the Blues in 2022, and after earning the starting jersey in 2023 went on to play a key role in the 2024 championship-winning season, featuring in 14 matches and starting in 41-10 win over the Chiefs in the final at Eden Park.
He was also a Super Rugby champion with the Hurricanes in 2016 and a long-time player for Taranaki.
Blues general manager of rugby Murray Williams said Riccitelli had a positive impact on the team.
"Ricky is the type of player every team needs. He's hard-working, resilient and a true professional as a leader within our forward group. While we're sad to see him go, he leaves with our support and gratitude for the contribution he's made to the Blues."
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