Harry Godfrey and Ngatungane Punivai, two gifted backs, have declared that they will be staying with the Hurricanes for the next two seasons. Punivai has renewed his commitment until 2026, and Godfrey will spend the next three seasons in the nation’s capital.
Godfrey’s versatility as a first five-eighth and fullback could prove to be very beneficial to the Hurricanes in the future. Godfrey may be able to fill in for first-choice flyhalf Brett Cameron, who is expected to miss the entire 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season due to a knee injury.
Godfrey made his Hurricanes debut and represented the “Baby Blacks” at the World Rugby U20 Championship the following season, after participating in two games during the 2022 National Provincial Championship season.
The former player for Whanganui Collegiate started five games at fullback in the South African championship. Other than a few starts over the past two seasons, Godfrey has generally mostly been utilised by the Hurricanes as an impact player off the bench.
Godfrey was selected by coach Clark Laidlaw for the First XV for the June quarterfinal matchup with the Melbourne Rebels. Godfrey is now in a good position going forward following another successful season with Hawke’s Bay in the NPC, where he started five of his six outings.
Godfrey said in a statement, “Being a part of this club has always been a dream of mine—growing up in this region—and I’m so grateful to be here for another three years.”
“The Canes are in a great position, and I have a lot of opportunities to improve.” I can’t wait to get in and give it my all.
Punivai, an outside back for the Crusaders, Highlanders, Chiefs, and now the Hurricanes, has a plethora of experience at the Super Rugby level. On March 22 at Palmerston North, during the round-robin matchup with the Rebels, the 26-year-old made his debut for the Canes.
Punivai was started at outside centre for that round five Trans-Tasman derby by coach Laidlaw. Punivai made one more appearance for the Hurricanes this season, at Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium during the round six matchup with the Highlanders.
Punivai said, “Being able to re-sign with the ‘Canes is a proud moment for me and my family.” “For this Petone boy, returning for the previous season was a full circle moment, so locking in a few more years is very special.”
In particular, the outside backs appear to be helping the Hurricanes assemble a strong team in front of the 2019 season. The Hurricanes declared this week that they have signed Kade Banks of North Harbour through 2025.
During the NPC campaign this year, Banks scored ten tries, including four in a single game as North Harbour Stadium defeated Waikato 43-29. Similar to Godfrey and Punivai, Banks might be a crucial component of the Hurricanes’ puzzle.
Coach Clark Laidlaw said, “We’re thrilled to have both Ngatungane and Harry re-sign with us.” “Our backline gains significant depth from their skill and versatility.”
“Ngatungane has shown some excellent performances this NPC season, and his versatility between the wing and centre positions is a great advantage.”
“Harry is a talented player who progressed through the Hurricanes system. We want to continue to improve his ability to play at both 10 and 15, and we’ve been encouraged by the development and maturity he’s showed for Hawke’s Bay recently.
