Paterson signs for Cardiff

Hurricanes forward Michael Paterson has agreed a three-year deal with the Cardiff Blues.

Hurricanes flanker off to Wales

Hurricanes forward Michael Paterson has agreed a three-year deal with the 2010 Amlin Challenge Cup champions Cardiff Blues. The 25-year old has put pen to paper on a deal that will keep him in the Welsh capital until 2013. Paterson was delighted at the move, telling stuff.co.nz "I am thoroughly looking forward to the opportunity of being over there with the New Zealand lads that are playing in Cardiff." Despite being touted as a possible international, the New Zealander has put his All Blacks ambitions on hold by switching to the Magners League outfit. Current policy means players will only be considered to represent the All Blacks if they play in New Zealand. However Paterson insists play for his country is not his primary concern. "At the end of the day, I had to go to make my own future certain," said Paterson. He is set to join fellow Kiwis Casey Lualala, Ben Blair as well as former Hurricane team mate Paul Tito in the Cardiff team.