Rugby
Rush to join Muller at Ulster
2010-02-08 17:34
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Xavier Rush (Gallo Images)
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London - Former All Black forward Xavier Rush will join Springbok lock Johann Muller in Ulster's pack next season after agreeing a switch from Cardiff Blues.
Rush, 32, has agreed a two-year deal with Celtic League outfit Ulster and will join them in July. Muller agreed last week to join Ulster following the end of this year's Super 14.
David Humphreys, the former Ireland fly-half who is now Ulster's director of rugby, welcomed the deal to sign Rush.
"Success in northern hemisphere rugby is built around the pack of forwards," he said.
"Over the past number of seasons, Xavier has been one of the outstanding back-row forwards in European rugby and his ball carrying ability and leadership qualities will further strengthen Ulster's pack for next season."
Cardiff fans' disappointment at the loss of Rush was offset by the news that full-back Ben Blair, another former All Black, has extended his contract with the region until 2012.
Chief executive Robert Norster said: "Ben has proved himself to be one of the most reliable goal-kickers and creative broken field runners in the game and we very much welcome his extended commitment to the team.
"Both Ben and Xavier have been outstanding contributors for our team, playing key roles in the successes of last season.
"Nevertheless, we must all accept the professional age in which we operate and respect the individual's right to pursue other cultures and environments during their relatively short playing careers.
"We have undertaken everything in our powers to retain Xavier's services. However, Xavier has decided to make a life change and we respect his desire to do so."
