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'Being able to support them is the best feeling ever' - Malakai Fekitoa opens up about sacrificing All Blacks to help 'close to 30' family members

January 20, 2019
Northern Tour - Scotland v All Blacks, 15 November 2014
All Blacks' Malakai Fekitoa
Mandatory Credit ©Photosport/Inpho/Billy Stickland

Former All Blacks midfielder Malakai Fekitoa has opened up about his decision to move to European club rugby, saying his inflated pay packet is used to help up to 30 family members.

Fekitoa, 26, swapped New Zealand for French side Toulon in 2017, before last week inking a new deal with English Premiership side Wasps.

The opportunity to provide for his loved ones was one too good for Fekitoa to turn down.

Speaking to England's Mail on Sunday, the 24 Test centre said that his move to Europe means he's better equipped to provide for his family, having lost his father as a teenager.

"I left New Zealand to support my family," Fekitoa said.

"I don't just support my mum. I support my younger brothers and sisters, my nieces, my nephews.

Rob Thompson has started the season in Malakai Fekitoa's old jersey.

"I've got close to 30 nieces and nephews around the world. Being able to support them is the best feeling ever."

Fekitoa also says that despite missing out on wearing the black jersey, he's ultimately happy with his decision to leave New Zealand rugby.

"Watching the All Blacks is always hard because I know what I can do. It's difficult but, at the same time, I feel proud watching the guys.

"I didn't just decide to leave. I thought about it for months and months and I believe I made the right decision.

"Whatever decision you make, you've got to back it 100 per cent and go with it."

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