Marshall agrees switch to Leeds - 橄欖球

驚！All Blacks滿多年記大了就去英國發展的呢。

Last Updated: Thursday, 6 January, 2005, 11:02 GMT
Marshall agrees switch to Leeds

MARSHALL FACTFILE
NZ Test debut - 1995 v SA
77 caps, 24 tries
Three Tri-Nations titles
Four Super 12 titles


All Blacks scrum-half Justin Marshall has agreed a two-year contract to
play for Leeds from next season.

The 31-year-old has a release clause in his New Zealand contract which
allows him to move after the 2005 Lions tour.

"It is a really exciting challenge and something new for me," Marshall
told BBC Sport.

Leeds rugby director Phil Davies added: "Justin is a world class player
who will add greatly to this group with his professionalism on and off
the field."

Marshall is the most capped New Zealand back of all time with 77 Tests
behind him, but was left at home for the All Blacks' European tour in
November.

He did travel to England to captain the Barbarians against his international
team-mates at Twickenham, and is intent on reclaiming his Test spot ahead of
the Lions' visit in June.

"I am committed to New Zealand rugby this season," he added. "I enjoy a good
challenge and it would be great to face the Lions."

Marshall is preparing to start training with the Canterbury Crusaders, whom
he has helped to four Super 12 titles, on Monday ahead of the new season.

His intended departure later this year comes with the blessing of All Blacks
coach Graham Henry.

"I fully understand why Justin is making the change at this stage of his
career," Henry said.

"While we never like losing world-class players from our ranks, there is
no doubting that he has served New Zealand rugby well over a long period
of time."

Marshall made his All Blacks debut in 1995, played in the 1999 and 2003
World Cups and captained the side on their 1997 tour of Britain.

"When I look back over the last 10 years of my playing career in New Zealand
I feel incredibly satisfied at all I have experienced and achieved," he added.

"As a kid my dream was to one day wear the All Black jersey. To have been
fortunate enough to wear the number nine jersey throughout the last 10 years
has certainly been an honour and given me memories I will never forget.

"I have relished the competitive environment in New Zealand at all levels of
the game and I have great pride in our country and my province Canterbury.

"I will miss my many friendships with team-mates in various teams but know
they will long continue in my life.

"Leeds will present new challenges. It's exciting to have the opportunity
to set new goals, and compete in a different competition.

"On a personal level (wife) Nicolle and I are looking forward to travelling
with our young family. It's an opportunity to step out of the comfort zone
and enjoy new experiences together."


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