New Zealand flanker Daniel Braid is set to return home at the end of the season in a bid to play in the 2011 World Cup.
Reds flanker agrees two-year deal with the Blues
New Zealand flanker Daniel Braid is set to return home at the end of the season in a bid to play in the 2011 World Cup.
The 29-year-old has been in impressive for the Reds since moving to Queensland, however he has agreed a two-year deal to join the Blues.
Braid won the last of his four caps for the All Blacks back in 2008 having fallen behind Richie McCaw and Scott Waldrom in the pecking order for the openside shirt.
However his current form has propelled him back into the reckoning - and Braid is hoping to leave the Reds on a winning note.
"I am very happy to be returning to Auckland and New Zealand during such an exciting time for New Zealand rugby," said Braid, who made his New Zealand debut in 2002 and was part of the World Cup squad the following year.
"Having the Rugby World Cup in your home country and the opportunity to potentially push for a place to represent New Zealand is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and this was a factor in my decision to return home.
"I have enjoyed my time at the Reds and I'm hoping to leave on a high note as part of a team that has improved enormously this season."
NZRU chief executive Steve Tew believes Braid's return is a positive sign for New Zealand rugby.
"We're delighted that Daniel has chosen to come back and commit to New Zealand rugby," he said.
"He has been an outstanding player both in his previous time in New Zealand and during this time with the Reds and his talent is widely recognised."
