Rugby: Hore in, Rutledge out of Highlanders squad?

All Black Andrew Hore is expected to be re-sign with the Highlanders when the names of the contracted players are released next week.

The Highlanders general manager Roger Clark told the Otago Daily Times Hore had had a few overseas offers but was expected to stay with the Highlanders.

The Stuff website said long-term Highlanders hooker Jason Rutledge had not had his contract renewed.

The Highlanders have signed Rutledge's apprentice - both at his plumbing business and in the Southland front row - Brayden Mitchell, and are in talks with Hore about his return to Dunedin for a second season.

Cost-cutting measures this season meant the New Zealand Rugby Union forced franchises to include only two hookers on their books and it was expected that that would continue next year.

Mitchell was the third hooker in the Highlanders squad two years ago but was left out this year because of the cost.

"He has been with us for three years and was in the wider training squad this year," Clark said.

The Highlanders contracted 32 players in 2011 but because of the need to reduce costs contracted only 30 this year and it will be the same next year, he said.

"It is looking positive for us. We still have to tidy up a few loose ends and can't release any other names until next week."