Secrets of Sam Whitelock’s Access to Bo

The information was officially announced a few weeks ago: New Zealand’s second-string international Sam Whitelock will land in Pau at the end of the World Cup.

The latter signed a two-season contract for the Baloise Division.

In Béarn, he will find his brother Luke Whitelock who has been playing under the Paloise colors since 2019.

To lure Sam Whitelock into his own net, the Paloise division had to take out the checkbook. And for good reason, the All-Blak team will, by far, command the club’s biggest salary.

However, this advertisement did not cause a sensation. There is little doubt that if Sam Whitelock had signed for a more ‘upscale’ club in the Top 14, the announcement of the New Zealander’s signing would have caused quite a stir.

Cross request the team, Agent Laurent Laffitte explains that Sam Whitelock is not coming to France to live a nice early retirement. Extracts:

That’s wrong. Moreover, the All Blacks wanted to extend his contract for two seasons. The All Blacks, who are well treated in their own country, where the federation adapts a lot to their needs in order to keep them as long as possible, could go and play in Japan or France. For this type of player, French clubs have the means to go to great lengths.

Laurent Laffitte estimates that Sam Whitelock will be landing in Pau at the beginning of December. Extracts:

“We can hope for an arrival at the beginning of December. In any case, whatever happens, he will return to New Zealand before returning to resume his appeal.”

On reflection, Sam Whitelock decided to turn down this contract extension to discover the Top 14 and join his brother at Pau.

For his part, Pau’s boss Bernard Ponteau explains how he managed to recruit Sam Whitelock. Extracts:

“Of course Luke’s presence is important. But not only that. We have subsidiaries in New Zealand, and have maintained good contacts and relationships with the All Blacks who have passed through the club. We were looking for a second line, someone who could provide leadership. From Luke we learned that Sam was interested in an adventure In France. Luke is not the only one who told us. Konrad Smith confirmed this information but Pau was not immediately alone. Two or three French clubs inquired.

There is an all-black tradition in Bo. Players here feel good, and it may remind them of the landscapes of their country. »

Bernard Ponteau declined to say what salary Sam Whitelock will receive. Extracts:

“I won’t tell you but it’s a lot less than some of the French internationals. We look forward. I’m convinced that he will make us grow, that he will help and inspire young people. I think for example Antoine Hastoy has grown faster and changed his equipment in connection with Colin Slade (peeing from 2015 to 2020) .»