Perpignan win Carter race
Fri, 27 Jun 2008 08:50
Emergency cover: All Black flyhalf Dan Carter
Dan Carter has confirmed that he will play for Perpignan in the 2008/9 French Top 14 competition, following the conclusion of his duties on the All Blacks' end-of-year Northern Hemisphere tour.
Carter will then return to New Zealand in June 2009 with an eye on securing his position in the All Blacks through until at least the 2011 World Cup.
This announcement brings an end to months of speculation about whether Carter would take up the offer of a six-month northern sabbatical from the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) and if so, the destination.
Carter had been linked to Toulon, and while he confirms that he had discussions with the Tana Umaga-coached club, Perpignan's involvement in next season's Heineken Cup ultimately tipped the balance for the Mediterranean-based club.
"Obviously we hear a lot about the strengths and weaknesses of the European competitions and how they compare to the Super 14 and the Air New Zealand Cup," Carter said.
"Basically, if I am going to play rugby in Europe I want to test myself against the best Europe can offer and I am excited about the challenges both the Top 14 and the Heineken Cup will bring.
"I have done plenty of research on both Toulon and Perpignan and whilst I have no doubt that I would have enjoyed Toulon, in the end, Perpignan's qualification for next year's Heineken Cup swayed my decision.
"I would like to thank the NZRU for offering me this unique opportunity. The All Black jersey is no one's by right and I fully appreciate that I will have to continue to play well and prove myself if I am to be involved with the All Blacks next year and beyond.
"The 2011 World Cup [in New Zealand] is going to be a phenomenal event and my priority has always been to be available to take part in that.
"Obviously there is also some disappointment at not being able to be part of the Crusaders next year and that was probably the hardest part of my decision, particularly given how well the boys finished the season and the excitement around the new coaching structures next year. The Crusaders have been a massive part of my life and I hope that I can continue that association when I return."
