Two-time Rugby World Cup winner Sam Whitelock could make a stunning return to international rugby with All Blacks coach Scott Robertson reportedly approaching the 153-Test veteran about a return to New Zealand’s shores.
Whitelock, who is currently playing with French club Pau in the Top 14, was thought to have retired from the international game after last year’s Rugby World Cup which saw New Zealand finish second behind South Africa.
During that campaign in France, Whitelock became the first All Black to reach and then pass the 150-Test marker, and also became a national hero once again with a famous turnover at the death during the thrilling quarter-final win over Ireland
While the 35-year-old had seemingly sailed into the sunset after joining younger brother Luke at Pau, it’s understood the legendary All Black could complete a stunning comeback to the top level.
According to New Zealand Herald scribe Gregor Paul, Whitelock is “considering returning to New Zealand” after a discussion with new All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson.
Robertson won seven Super Rugby titles with Whitelock during a historic run with the Crusaders, and the coach appears intent on working with the set-piece guru once again.
Paul understands that Whitelock could be in line for “at least one more” year of international rugby, and potentially another, with the second-rower a chance to play valuable minutes.
With multiple genuine greats of All Blacks rugby leaving New Zealand after last year’s World Cup, including lock Brodie Retallick, there’s no question that Whitelock’s return would be significantly positive for a young crop of players coming through.
Chiefs duo Josh Lord and Tupou Vaa’i have played less than 30 Tests between them, and the Crusaders’ Quinten Strange is yet to enter the fray of international rugby with the All Blacks.
Scott Barrett, who has played just short of 70 Tests in the black jersey, is expected to suit up for New Zealand later this year, but Whitelock’s involvement in the squad would still come as a major boost.
But for now, Whitelock is still committed to Pau who currently sit mid-table with 10 wins and eight losses so far this season.
“I’m looking forward to discovering rugby in France and facing this challenge,” Whitelock said in a Pau statement after signing for the club last year.
“It’s great to be able to play with my brother in the same team and not against each other. My family and I are looking forward to discovering French culture and learning the language.”
It’s understood that Whitelock will have an option at the end of the Top 14 season to either re-sign with Pau or potentially return to New Zealand if a Super Rugby side decides to sign him.
