Blues coach Leon MacDonald has no doubts over the commitment of Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, even with his return to rugby league confirmed.
On Thursday, Tuivasa-Sheck announced 2023 will be his last year in rugby union, with the 29-year-old to rejoin NZ Warriors next year on a three-year deal.
But with plenty of time still to pass before said return to the NRL, Tuivasa-Sheck's final days in rugby union will see him push for an All Blacks spot for this year's Rugby World Cup in France.
Super Rugby form will play a huge part in Tuivasa-Sheck presenting his case to Ian Foster, competing with the likes of Jordie Barrett and David Havili for the All Blacks' No.12 jersey.
In 2022, Tuivasa-Sheck impressed in his first season with the Blues, as part of the side that won 15 consecutive games before tasting defeat in the Super Rugby final.
And with time now ticking on his time in blue, Tuivasa-Sheck will have one last chance to lift a title with his hometown side in 2023.
For the Blues themselves, there was no thought of standing in Tuivasa-Sheck's way. Now though, coach Leon MacDonald asserts there is
"There was a big decision brewing for a long time," said MacDonald. "It's nice that he's made it.
"We support him with that. He's made it really clear that the Blues are his priority this year.
"He's going to do everything he can to win a title. I'm happy with that."
On the mend from a broken hand, Tuivasa-Sheck missed the Blues' 55-21 victory over NSW Waratahs at Eden Park on Saturday.
The midfielder is shaping to return next week alongside captain Dalton Papali'i, when the Blues travel to face Fijian Drua away from home on Saturday.
"Those two will be available," MacDonald confirmed. "That's good. As we go into that final run, we're going to need a lot of players."
However, the Blues could also be without two of their key players, as All Blacks duo Stephen Perofeta (shoulder) and Nepo Laulala (calf) both left the field injured in Saturday's win.
"They both look relatively significant," added MacDonald. "Stephy felt his shoulder move a little bit, so we need to get a scan on that and see the extent of the damage.
"I think he's done something to that shoulder in the past. We'll be sweating on that.
"Neps' calf doesn't look 100 percent great. We'll be looking on that as well."
