Super 15
Slade heads south to Highlanders
Scrum.com
August 25, 2010
The Cheetahs' Hennie Daniller closes in on the Crusaders' Colin Slade, Crusaders v Cheetahs, Super 14, AMI Stadium, Christchurch, New Zealand, April 17, 2010
Colin Slade has inked a deal with the Highlanders © Getty Images
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Players/Officials: Colin Slade

Crusaders fly-half Colin Slade has signed a deal with the Highlanders for the 2011 Super 15 season.

The 22-year-old has spent two seasons in Christchurch as back-up to Dan Carter, often being switched to fullback due to the presence of the All Black playmaker.

With the Rugby World Cup looming, Slade has opted for a full season in his preferred fly-half role as he looks to win Test recognition. His counterpart, Stephen Brett, took a similar route last season in agreeing a move to the Blues for the Super 14.

"We're very excited he is going to be a key part of our campaign," Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph said. "Colin is confident that the Highlanders will provide the platform to enable him to work on his aspirations to play in a black jersey in next year's Rugby World Cup.

"This is a great opportunity for Colin to showcase his talent. I have been impressed with his qualities as a player and as a leader and he will be a great addition to the Highlanders."

The signing will be a boost to the southern franchise, who endured another difficult campaign in 2009. They finished 12th, above only the Western Force and winless Lions, and will lose reliable midfielder Jason Shoemark to Exeter at the end of the current ITM Cup season.

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