Stephen Brett is hoping to boost his chances of New Zealand selection next year with a move to the Blues.
New Blues signing aims for international success
Stephen Brett is hoping to boost his chances of New Zealand selection next year with a move to the Blues.
Brett has headed north to secure regular playing time after four seasons and 39 appearances for the Christchurch-based Crusaders.
He was given a taste of the international scene when he was called up to train with the All Blacks during the Tri-Nations earlier this year.
However, Brett's hopes of success in the No.10 jersey have been obstructed by Crusaders' star fly-half Daniel Carter, forcing the 23-year-old to make the move to another franchise in the hope of making an impression.
"The game time is what I need. I'm looking forward to the new challenge here," said Brett.
"Obviously I'm going to be missing the red and blacks but I've got to do what's best for my career and that was to move up to the Blues.
"I had a wee taste of that All Blacks environment this year and that gave me the confidence that I can get there."
Brett made a notable impact for the Crusaders and Canterbury in 2007 as the leading points-scorer in both teams, and has shown promise of returning to that top form in this season's Air New Zealand Cup for Canterbury after steering them to the title against Wellington.
Confidence
"I just want to build on my Air New Zealand Cup and get back the confidence I had in 2007," added Brett.
"If I can get back to that form then hopefully I can help the Blues out too."
Brett will represent half of a new inside back pairing alongside Alby Mathewson, who has signed with the Blues from the Hurricanes.
"He's a player that's at the top of his game at the moment as well," said Brett.
"He's also a player that needs game time to put himself forward for the All Blacks as well."
