AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - AUGUST 31: Kade Banks of North Harbour takes a catch during the round four Bunnings Warehouse NPC match between North Harbour and Counties Manukau at North Harbour Stadium, on August 31, 2024, in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images)
The Hurricanes are thrilled to announce the signing of dynamic outside-back, Kade Banks for the 2025 season.
Banks, fresh off the back of a standout NPC season with North Harbour, has had somewhat of a non-traditional journey to the upper echelons of rugby.
“I started playing rugby at the age of 4, and it’s been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It hasn’t been the most straightforward journey, but in some ways, it makes me appreciate it even more.”
Banks played First XV rugby at Mahurangi College in Warkworth, 60 kms north of Auckland, without a clear pathway to academies or provincial unions. His rugby journey began when he was selected for the North Harbour Sevens team. He then progressed to the Under 19s for both Mahurangi and North Harbour, ultimately signing with the North Harbour provincial side in 2020.
He earned his maiden call-up for the Blues last season and went on to score a try on debut against the Highlanders.
“It’s been my childhood dream to play Super Rugby,” remarked Banks. “It’s been a bit of a journey to get here, but to have the opportunity to play for the ‘Canes is a massive honour. I can’t wait to add to the legacy of the jersey.”
There’s one former player in particular who comes to mind when Banks thinks of legacy.
“The way Christian Cullen ran the ball, and the way he played the game in general was something pretty special.”
Hurricanes Head Coach, Clark Laidlaw, shared his enthusiasm about the new signing; “Kade is a talented young player, who’s really impressed us throughout the NPC season. He’s shown that he not only has the ability to beat defenders and line break but can also finish. With his kicking game and ability to cover fullback, we’re excited to see what he can bring to the backline in 2025.”
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