Blues to keep Blair but lose Rush
Mon, 08 Feb 2010 14:47
Ben Blair has extended his contractual commitment to the Cardiff Blues until 2012, but former captain Xavier Rush has decided to call time on his five year association with the Blues to pursue another challenge in Northern Ireland with Ulster Rugby.
Blair joined the Blues in the summer of 2006 after ending his New Zealand club career with Canterbury.
The four times capped All Black is a prolific goal kicker and reached the 100 point mark in the Magners League after only nine games.
He has gone on to notch up 871 points, becoming the region's top points scorer.
Since joining the Blues in 2006 Blair has proven his worth, making 91 appearances for the region, starting 90, and was voted the player of the season, for the 2007/08 season, by the supporters' club.
"I am delighted to commit my future to the Blues where I am more than happy having enjoyed my time on and off the field from day one," Blair said in a club statement.
"I have a young family that are really settled in our adopted home from home and I look forward to building on the successes of last year with my friends and colleagues in what is a very competitive squad here at the Blues."
Xavier Rush joined the Cardiff Blues from the Auckland Blues in 2005. The Kiwi powerhouse was an instant hit with the fans, with both his aggressive attacking play and leadership qualities being appreciated by all, and saw Rush being named as The Supporters' Club Player of the Season in his first year.
Xavier was made Captain of the Cardiff Blues in the summer of 2006 and led the team with distinction for two years, before handing the reigns over to fellow Kiwi, Paul Tito.
After five years with the Cardiff Blues, Rush believes it is time to move on to a new challenge.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time living in Wales, representing and captaining the Cardiff Blues has been a real honour," Rush said in a club statement.
"Over the years I have developed many friendships that will last a lifetime.
"However, my original intention having moved from New Zealand back in 2005, was always to experience life in Europe and after five years in the capital city of Wales, which has been a real privilege, I feel the time is right for a change before I consider the future following my playing career.
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