Smith supports Braid move
Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:08
Australian star flank George Smith says he was pleasantly surprised by the news that the Queensland Reds had signed current Auckland Blues openside Daniel Braid for next season's Super 14 campaign.
Smith said he was convinced the arrival of Braid would be of huge benefit to Queensland in the Super 14 and, while he admitted he had not seen it coming, he was pleased Australian rugby could benefit from his vast experience.
"He [Braid] can only benefit Australian rugby," said Smith.
"He's played for the All Blacks and at Super 14 level very regularly for the past few years and his experience will definitely be valuable for the Queensland Reds."
"It was a surprise to me, but it's great to hear.
"He'll be able to pass his intellectual property to the Reds players."
Braid was named New Zealand's Super 14 Player of the Year in 2007 but has had his international ambitions hindered by the presence of All Black skipper Richie McCaw.
Despite limited opportunities though there would be few who would doubt Braid's world class ability and his current employers have already expressed their disappointment at the loss of one of their star performers.
The New Zealand will arrive in Queensland as a direct replacement for recently retired Queensland hero David Croft.
