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Find your Sport Nation frequencyTwo Chiefs set to strengthen Blues pack in 2025
Sport Nation • July 16th, 2025 12:00 am
Bradley Slater | Photo: Photosport
The Blues have bolstered their forward pack with the signings of promising loose forward Malachi Wrampling and experienced hooker Bradley Slater, both committing through to the end of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Wrampling, 21, makes the move from the Chiefs after debuting earlier this year against the Fijian Drua. A former New Zealand Schools and U20 representative, he impressed through the Chiefs U18 and U20 pathways after graduating from St Paul’s Collegiate in Hamilton.
“Malachi is a powerful, dynamic loose forward who’s only just scratched the surface of his potential,” said Blues GM of rugby, Murray Williams.
“He’s fearless, eager to learn, and built for the modern game.”
Malachi Wrampling | Photo: Photosport
The younger brother of Chiefs midfielder Gideon Wrampling, Malachi is eager to carve his own path at the Blues.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity and can’t wait to get stuck in. The Blues play a tough, physical game and I’m excited to grow alongside the experienced players in the squad.”
Joining him is 26-year-old Slater, who brings 68 caps of Super Rugby experience from his time with the Chiefs. A product of New Plymouth Boys’ High School and Taranaki, Slater featured in the New Zealand U20s in 2019 and quickly rose through the ranks under then-Chiefs coach Warren Gatland.
“Brad is a hardened Super Rugby player who adds edge and leadership to our front row,” Williams said. “He’s tough, smart, and technically sharp in the set-piece.”
Slater is also ready for a new challenge: “The Blues have built something pretty special in recent years and I’m excited to be a part of it. It’s a fresh start and I’m keen to contribute.”
Both players will join the Blues for pre-season ahead of the 2026 campaign.
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