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Rugby Union

Marshall quits Ospreys for Montpellier

16/07/2008

Former All Blacks scrum-half Justin Marshall has joined French Top 14 side Montpellier after announcing his surprise decision to quit the Ospreys.

The 34-year-old, who played for Guinness Premiership side Leeds Tykes for one season before joining the Ospreys in 2006, had been expected to resign with the Welsh provincial side or return to his native New Zealand.

However, today he has been unveiled by the French club ahead of the 2008/09 season – signing a two-year contract.

And head coach Didier Nourault said he would fit in well at the Stade Yves du Manoir.

"Justin is exactly the kind of player we have been searching for," Nourault said.

"He is a player of a very high level, who has much experience.

"He will bring a great deal to the team and make it possible for our young scrum-halves - Julien and Adrien Tomas - to progress."

Montpellier have also signed South African back Jacques Shutte, 28, from Valke Falcons on a two-year contract and 23-year-old fly-half Santiago Bottini from Beziers.