News in Brief
Chiefs complete Shoemark capture
Jason Shoemark has signed for Exeter
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- Exeter Chiefs have continued to build towards their first season in the Guinness Premiership with the signing of former Highlanders skipper Jason Shoemark.
The 29-year-old will arrive at Sandy Park in November, following the completion of Hawke's Bay's ITM Cup season.
"He could easily be regarded as one of the best midfield players not to win a full cap for the All
Blacks and I would like to think that during the next two seasons, Jason will bring the leadership and competitive qualities to our team that will be vital in the Premiership," head coach Rob Baxter said. "He is currently at the top of his game having played a full part in the Super 14 with
the Highlanders this year and earning a call-up to the All Blacks squad last season."
- Brumbies scrum-half Patrick Phibbs has signed a new one-year deal with the Super 14 side, while academy product Nick White has been elevated to the full squad on a two-year deal.
"We're very pleased to have Pat and Nick in the squad along with Josh Valentine, who will provide three genuine scrum-half options for the side in 2011," head coach Andy Friend said.
"Pat has been a consistent performer for the side over the past six seasons. He's been a very reliable player and brings a great deal of experience having brought up his 50th Super Rugby cap this year."
- Newport-Gwent Dragons have signed former Cardiff Blues flanker Robin Sowden-Taylor on a two-year deal. The Welsh international, 28, will compete with Gavin Thomas for the No.7 jersey after securing release from the Blues.
"I'm really glad to have signed with the Dragons, it has taken a fair bit of time but I felt I needed that and now I'm just happy to be here," he said. "The main reason for my move was to get regular rugby. That is something I have struggled with a bit with Cardiff and I don't think I have been able to reach my full potential."
- Sale Sharks head coach Mike Brewer has delivered another new signing with the capture of England Sevens international Chris Brightwell. The New Zealand-born flanker, 25, is also a useful place-kicker.
"I spoke with Jamie Joseph, the current Wellington and New Zealand Maori Coach, about Chris as well as England Sevens coach Ben Ryan," Brewer said. "Both have highly recommended Chris and see him having a big future if he can nail down a place in the starting XV with Sale Sharks."
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1. Max Verstappen ()
