News

Brown eyes Highlanders return

October 16 2008

Former All Blacks fly-half Tony Brown, 33, is in talks over a return to the Highlanders for next year's Super 14 tournament.

Brown, who last donned Highlanders colours in 2004, is back in Japan playing for the Sanyo club but has expressed an interest in returning to play in New Zealand.

Since his departure, Brown has played in Japan and plied his trade with South Africa's Sharks and this year, with the Stormers in the Super 14.

"We certainly talked to him when he was back for the test (in Dunedin) about his plans and where he was at," Highlanders chief executive Richard Reid told the Southland Times.

Talks had continued with Brown but Reid indicated that a decision would ultimately come down to whether Highlanders coach Glenn Moore believed the player would fit his plans for next year.

Brown played 18 Tests for the All Blacks between 1999 and 2001, scoring 171 points including five tries.

Former All Blacks returning to play their rugby in New Zealand is happening more frequently now, with both Josh Blackie back and Brad Mika expected to line up in the Super 14 after stints overseas.