27 May 2014

Flutey returns to Lions

2:22 pm on 27 May 2014

The British and Irish Lion, Ricki Flutey, has signed for the Wellington Lions for this year's national provincial championship

The 34-year-old has returned to the Capital following two seasons in Japan.

Flutey last played for Wellington in 2005, before heading to the Northern Hemisphere where he was selected to represent England from 2008-2011.

In 2009, he was also named in the British and Irish Lions to tour South Africa.

After nine years away from rugby in New Zealand, Flutey says he's excited to have the opportunity to return home with his young family and represent the Lions again.

Since returning home he has enjoyed getting stuck in at grassroots level with his old club, Petone.

Lions head coach Chris Boyd says Flutey will bring a huge amount of experience to the Lions, particularly in the midfield.

Flutey is reportedly hopeful of being signed by the Hurricanes next year.