Carter will return to Christchurch
June 15 2009
New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter has ended the speculation about his future by signing with Canterbury until the end of 2011, Chief Executive Hamish Riach confirmed on Monday.
Carter was reportedly the subject of a two-way battle for his signature between the Crusaders and Auckland Blues, but the former Perpignan star opted to return to where it all started.
"We are absolutely delighted to be able to re-sign Dan until after the next Rugby World Cup," said Riach, speaking to NZPA.
"While there has been intense media speculation about Dan's future provincial union, our discussions have been positive and constructive throughout and have lead to this agreement today [Monday].
"Dan is obviously a world class player and it will be fantastic to have him back. It is quite simply tremendously good news for all who care about Canterbury and Crusaders rugby."
Meanwhile, Carter admitted he was delighted at the opportunity to move back to the New Zealand outfit after an enjoyable, if injury hampered, spell with the Catalans.
"Christchurch has always been home for me, so it's great to have re-signed with Canterbury rugby through to 2011," he said.
"I'm looking forward to playing in a red and black jersey again and being part of the province that has given my rugby so much."