Hurricanes lock Michael Fatialofa has signed a two-year deal with English club team the Worcester Warriors and is set to leave New Zealand at the end of the 2018 Super Rugby season.
Fatialofa, 25, was an integral part of the Hurricanes side that won the 2016 Super Rugby title.
His teammate Brad Shields said the Canes lock will be a massive loss for the Wellington Super Rugby franchise.
"He's massive. He's been one of those sort of quiet workers, and he just puts his head down and does his job, so yeah he's one of those players who's physical for us and he's learned how to run the line-out really well and yeah he's going to be a quality miss for this Hurricanes team," said Shields.
"There's an opportunity there for him, and he's obviously thinking of other opportunities and good on him, we wish him all the best."
Shields said he hasn't talked with Fatialofa about his decision to move, but applauds him on doing what he thinks is the right for his rugby career.
"Not too much it's sort of – I guess when you're in that situation you sort of have got to make that decision yourself.
"I mean the guys obviously talk to each other and try and find as much advice as they can but at the end of the day it's what feels right for you, and obviously it's his time to move on."
Shields, 26, will also be joining Fatialofa in plying his trade in England, he has signed with the London Wasps and is set to leave New Zealand at the end of the 2018 Super Rugby season.
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