Young full-back Israel Dagg has decided to re-sign with the Highlanders despite interest from the Crusaders.
Full-back decides against Crusaders switch
The Highlanders have been boosted by the news that exciting young full-back Israel Dagg has decided to re-sign with the team for next year's Super 14.
Dagg had been linked with a switch to the Crusaders, who recently snapped up his friend and Hawke's Bay team-mate Zac Guildford.
Hawke's Bay are aligned with the Hurricanes franchise, but coach Colin Cooper elected not to recruit Dagg and he was subsequently picked up by the Highlanders.
The 21-year-old is now hoping to be a regular starter for the Dunedin-based side during the 2010 campaign.
Right choice
"With the Hurricanes well served with full-backs and my wish to play as much Super 14 as possible, the Highlanders is the right choice," Dagg said.
"I enjoyed my time there last season and enjoy working with (Highlanders coach) Glenn Moore and my provincial coach Peter Russell (the Highlanders assistant coach)."
The Dagg deal follows the announcement that New Zealand scrum-half Jimmy Cowan and prop Jamie Mackintosh would both be staying at Carisbrook.
"The continuity of players, season on season, is hugely important," Moore said.
"Israel is a high quality player who is one of the best full-backs around. I am delighted he is returning."
Dagg will still play provincial rugby for Hawke's Bay due to a transfer-loan back agreement, with Guildford's Crusaders deal including a similar clause.
