Super Rugby
Nonu and Hore axed by Hurricanes
ESPNscrum Staff
June 8, 2011

All Blacks Ma'a Nonu and Andrew Hore have been deemed surplus to requirements by the Hurricanes and will not be at the Super Rugby franchise next year.

Coach Mark Hammett has confirmed that the pair will not be offered contracts for 2012 and also that a combination of factors forced the move.

"We've got to make decisions on how we move forward and it's been a combined decision," he said.

The 29-year-old Nonu, who refused to answer questions from reporters and instead made a statement, was more forthcoming.

"It's pretty disappointing not being required next year. I had nothing to do with the matter, but that's the way it goes. It's a shame but you move on," he said.

"I've spent a third of my life in this team, I've met a lot of great guys and made a lot of friends over the years and I'm grateful for that. I'm pretty proud of what I've done in this team. In my wildest dreams I never thought I'd make 'Canes...I got to play with my schoolboy heroes."

Nonu has been linked with a potential move to the Chiefs and was also rumoured to be courted by clubs in France, while Hore is understood to be keen on a season for the Highlanders.

"These guys also have to have the opportunity to look ahead as well in terms of what they're doing for their futures," Hammett said. "Like anyone who's leaving a family there's some that are very close in a squad. For the guys that are really good mates that's a difficult time for those boys."

Meanwhile, talks have been held with Piri Weepu and Cory Jane about extending their deals and Hammett was optimistic their futures would be resolved in coming weeks. "I'm hoping they'll make a decision to stay on with us. They've got big decisions to make in the next month or so," he said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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