Crusaders flanker Pete Samu cleared to play for Wallabies

THE Wallabies have received a major boost ahead of their mid-year series with Ireland, with Crusaders flanker Pete Samu freed up to play after belatedly getting a release from the NZRU.

Izzy a bird, Izzy a plane? Pete Samu (C) has earned a call-up to the Wallabies.

​​AUSSIE Crusader Pete Samu has been cleared to join the Wallabies camp after Rugby Australia finally reached an agreement with New Zealand over the release of the flanker.

After several days of heated negotiations, in which RA initially rejected an NZR demand for over $50,000 for Samu’s clearance, it was announced the parties had come to an agreement for the 26-year-old to be available for the Wallabies in June, and beyond.

It was not revealed if money changed hands but RA’s press release said Samu would be released from his contract to play Mitre Ten Cup for Tasman after Super Rugby, which would point to a pay out of some sort.

Pete Samu (L) has been rushed straight into the Wallabies squad.

Samu will join the Wallabies’ camp for the Ireland Test series before finishing the season with the Crusaders. The Melbourne-raised backrower will then return to Australia permanently, and be available for the Rugby Championship and/or the National Rugby Competition for the Canberra Vikings.

The agreement between RA and the NZR came after Samu became eligible last week to play for the Wallabies this season, following confirmation of his signing a two-year deal with the Brumbies for the 2019-20 season.

RA sought a release of Samu under regulation Nine.

“I want to thank New Zealand Rugby for their consideration in releasing Peter for international duties,” RA boss Raelene Castle said.

“Our discussions were robust but fair and I’m pleased we’ve reached an agreement to allow Peter the opportunity to represent his country.”

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