Highlanders sign Slade

[ROAMER]

Highlanders Coach Jamie Joseph today announced that Canterbury first five-eighth Colin Slade will play for the Highlanders franchise in the 2011 Super 15.

After two seasons with the Crusaders, 22-year-old Slade will be moving further south to cement his place as a specialist in the No 10 jersey, after signing a contract with the Highlanders for the 2011 Super Rugby season.

All Blacks first five-eighth Daniel Carter forced Slade to play fullback for much of this year's Super 14 competition and his move south should at least give him time in his preferred position as he pushes for World Cup selection, albeit in a struggling team.

Follow All Blacks prospect Stephen Brett left the Crusaders for the Blues this year after finding himself in a similar predicament.

Joseph said Slade's signing was a crucial acquisition for the franchise as he works towards building a successful team and campaign next year.

"We're very excited he is going to be a key part of our campaign. Colin is confident that the Highlanders will provide the platform to enable him to work on his aspirations to play in a black jersey in next year's Rugby World Cup.

"This is a great opportunity for Colin to showcase his talent. I have been impressed with his qualities as a player and as a leader and he will be a great addition to the Highlanders," Joseph said.

Slade said he was excited about the challenge of moving to a leadership role within the Highlanders next year.

"I'm really keen to shift my playing ability up to the next level, and I think playing for the Highlanders will propel me in the right direction," Slade said.

Slade debuted for the Crusaders in 2009. He has 26 Super Rugby caps and 50 Super Rugby points with the Crusaders. He is currently playing his third provincial season with Canterbury, having debuted against Manawatu in 2008.

A talented kicker with both feet, Slade represented New Zealand in the Under 19 squad in 2006, the Junior All Blacks in 2009, and this year he played for the New Zealand Barbarians that played against the New Zealand Maori team in Whangarei this year.

[Strathen]

A good signing for the Highlanders in what has been a problem position since Evans left. Slade will do well playing outside Jimmy, and Jimmy will do well to have Slade taking the pressure off him.

I do wonder what this means for Robbie Robinson. Perhaps they can slot him back at fullback to replace Dagg, and not a bad replacement either.

I think (hope) there will be a strong Southland contingent in next years Highlanders team. They have proved themselves, and Jamie Joseph give me the impression he will play guys on merit, rather than if they should be in team due to the old boys network.

[ROAMER]

I would have been happier if thommo had stayed

[Reformed]

Chaps... I think it's time for the air raid sirens to go off in Dunedin... Flags at half mast please.

[ROAMER]

ahem... we are talking HIGHLANDERS here, not Otago provincial

[Strathen]

Correct Roams, we still have Southland to draw upon for talent, and draw the franchise will.

[ROAMER]

aaand.. have a look at Slade go!!