News

Blackie to fill Braid's shoes

October 10 2008

New Zealand flanker Josh Blackie is returning to New Zealand and will be available to play in next year's Super 14.

29-year-old Blackie, who is currently playing for Kobe Steel in Japan, has signed a two-year contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union( NZRU) and the Auckland Rugby Union and will be available for selection for the Blues squad for 2009.

The Junior All Black, New Zealand Sevens player and former Highlanders and Otago captain is one of New Zealand's leading flankers and a highly regarded professional player.

He played 55 games for the Highlanders and 73 for Otago before heading to Japan at the end of last year's Super 14 competition.

NZRU CEO Steve Tew said the return of Blackie was fantastic news for New Zealand rugby.

"As New Zealand rugby fans know, Josh is an outstanding rugby player and his return will certainly provide a boost for the Blues and Auckland - and for New Zealand rugby overall," he said.

"It is heartening that a player like Josh is keen to return after his time and experience in Japan."

Blackie's agent Warren Alcock said Blackie was excited to be coming back to New Zealand and was keen to make the most of his opportunities in the Super 14.

"Whilst he previously played all his rugby for Otago and the Highlanders he has opted to return to Auckland because that is where he grew up and he still has family there. Daniel Braid's recent announcement has also clearly made the decision to return to Auckland easier."

Blackie will return to New Zealand early next year at the end of the Japanese season.