Botica and Osborne returning to New Zealand
by Huw Turner
May 14, 2001

Two former All Blacks are returning to New Zealand on the completion of their contracts in France.

A North Harbour spokesman today confirmed to Scrum that Osborne, 29, is on his way back to Auckland from Biarritz and is expected to play in this year's NPC.The versatile Osborne made 19 test appearances for the All Blacks, starring as a full back at the 1995 World Cup and winning his final cap on the wing during the 1999 World Cup. His progress with the First Divison French side has been hindered in recent months by a succession of injuries, but he is returning home with the intention of resuming his playing career with Buck Shelford's side.

38 year old Frano Botica, who played 7 tests between 1986-1989 before beginning a lengthy rugby league career with Wigan in England, returned to North Harbour and NPC action in 1999. He captained the side to the semi final before taking up a contract with Biarritz.He is not committed to playing with Harbour in 2001 but the club has indicated that it will be looking seriously at his form and fitness before making a decision.

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