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Rugby Union

Carter signs six-month deal with Perpignan

27/06/2008

All Blacks fly-half Dan Carter has signed a six-month contract to play for French Top 14 side Perpignan in the second half of the 2008/09 season.

Carter will stay in Europe following the conclusion of New Zealand's northern hemisphere tour in the autumn and return from his sabbatical in June 2009 in preparation for the summer internationals.

Carter was widely expected to agree terms with Perpignan's French rivals Toulon.

But he has instead opted for the Mediterranean coastal team because of their qualification for the Heineken Cup next season. Toulon are in the second tier continental competition, the European Challenge Cup.

"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 explained.

"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 European 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 European Cup swayed my decision."

Carter thanked the New Zealand Rugby Union for allowing him to take a sabbatical while still remaining in contention to play for the All Blacks upon his return to his homeland - in line with the country's selection policy.

And he said is already looking forward to the 2011 Rugby World Cup on home soil.

"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," he continued.

"The 2011 Rugby World Cup 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."