Super Rugby Pacific champion hooker Ricky Riccitelli has announced a big career change, moving from New Zealand to Montpellier, a prestigious French Top 14 team. Despite his exceptional accomplishments in the Super Rugby competition, he was passed over for selection in both the All Blacks and the All Blacks XV squads, which led to this decision.
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Ricky Riccitelli’s Ascent in Super Rugby
In 2022, 29-year-old Riccitelli moved north from the Hurricanes to the Blues, who were located in Auckland. He eventually became a vital starting hooker in Super Rugby thanks to his shift, which enabled him to emerge from the shadows of All Blacks mainstays like Dane Coles and Asafo Aumua. Riccitelli had one of his best seasons to date in 2024, contributing significantly to the Blues’ championship-winning campaign.
He became known as one of New Zealand’s best hookers as a result of his outstanding performances; many people thought he was the best choice after Aumua, particularly after Samisoni Taukei’aho was hurt during the Chiefs’ semifinal victory over the Hurricanes. To the astonishment of both supporters and experts, the All Blacks selectors decided to call up young George Bell of the Crusaders rather than Riccitelli, despite the latter’s outstanding play.
The Repercussions of the All Blacks Snub
Since the selectors preferred younger players, many thought Riccitelli’s removal from the All Blacks roster was because of age concerns. Riccitelli’s exclusion from the All Blacks XV team in October, however, appeared to be a glaring sign that his hopes of wearing the black jersey were waning. In light of Riccitelli’s performance during the Super Rugby season, this was a severe setback to his aspirations.
The date of Riccitelli’s alleged agreement with Montpellier raises several concerns. Was the decision to quit rugby in New Zealand made prior to or during the All Blacks XV snub? The All Blacks’ next match against Ireland will feature Brodie McAlister as injury cover, but Riccitelli’s exclusion from this development squad stoked more rumors regarding his future with the national team.
The transfer to Montpellier and upcoming opportunities
Riccitelli’s move to Montpellier marks the start of a new chapter in his career, even though he hasn’t been included in the All Blacks squads. Montpellier, a dominant force in France’s Top 14, offers Riccitelli the opportunity to test himself in one of the most competitive rugby environments in Europe. He will be able to enhance his hooker talents and obtain priceless international experience with this transfer.
Since Riccitelli has a 2025 contract with the Blues and New Zealand Rugby, his exit will occur when the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific season is over. Riccitelli will be turning his attention to the future and hoping to make an impact on the French rugby landscape now that he has a new contract with Montpellier.
Riccitelli’s Prospects with New Zealand Rugby and the All Blacks
Riccitelli’s future with the All Blacks is still somewhat questionable, despite the fact that he will be relocating to Montpellier. Even if his exclusion from the national team is a major blow, professional rugby allows for unforeseen chances. Despite wearing a new shirt, Riccitelli might still have an opportunity to demonstrate his abilities on the international scene because player rotations and injuries are frequent in international rugby.
Given that additional Zealand rugby scouts frequently monitor players playing abroad, Riccitelli’s move to Montpellier could potentially open up additional opportunities in the future. If given the chance, Riccitelli’s time in the Top 14 might enhance his rugby credentials and position him as a serious candidate for future international assignments.
Is a new era beginning or is it coming to an end?
In his rugby career, Ricky Riccitelli’s move from New Zealand to Montpellier is a turning point. Although it was disappointing that he was left out of the All Blacks and All Blacks XV squads, it has given him the opportunity to face a new challenge in France. In addition to changing careers, Riccitelli’s move to Montpellier is a declaration of his ongoing desire to advance and be successful in the world of international rugby.
As the Super Rugby Pacific season progresses, Riccitelli hopes to leave a lasting legacy of brilliance and tenacity by wrapping up his tenure with the Blues on a strong note. But for the time being, he is fully focused on his new adventure with Montpellier, where he hopes to establish himself in the very tough French rugby scene.
It remains to be seen if this transfer is a diversion on Riccitelli’s journey to greatness or if it signifies the end of his All Blacks dreams.