Magners League
Rush confirms Ulster move
Scrum.com
February 8, 2010
The Blues' Xavier Rush exploits a gap in the Wallabies' defence, Cardiff Blues v Australia, City of Cardiff Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, November 24, 2009
Xavier Rush will leave Cardiff at the end of the season © Getty Images
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Players/Officials: Ben Blair | Xavier Rush
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Cardiff Blues have failed in their bid to keep talismanic No.8 Xavier Rush at the region, with the former All Black agreeing a move to their Magners League rivals Ulster at the end of the season.

Speculation over Rush's future has seen him linked with the new Melbourne Rebels Super Rugby franchise as well as a move to Japan, but the opportunity of widening his European experience has won out for the powerful back-row. Rush joined the Blues in 2005 after captaining their Auckland namesakes to the Super 12 title and winning eight New Zealand caps.

In a major boost to the Blues, though, Kiwi fullback Ben Blair has committed his future to their cause until 2012 after being linked with a move. Blair joined the Blues from Canterbury and the Crusaders in 2006 and has notched 871 points to become their top scorer.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time living in Wales, representing and captaining the Cardiff Blues has been a real honour," Rush said. "Over the years I have developed many friendships that will last a lifetime.

"However, my original intention having moved from New Zealand back in 2005, was always to experience life in Europe and after five years in the capital city of Wales, which has been a real privilege, I feel the time is right for a change before I consider the future following my playing career."

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