The confirmation of Laulala's arrival has been anticipated for a number of months, but is no less fantastic news for the Welsh region. The twice capped 15 st 10 lb centre comes a with a big reputation as being one of the Southern Hemisphere's hardest hitting backs, with his fast pace and eye for an offload making him the perfect midfield partner for either Tom Shanklin or Jamie Roberts.

Having turned 27 in May, Laulala also arrives as he's hitting the peak of his career. Chief Exec Bob Norster was thrilled to announce the Blues latest capture,

"We are delighted to have finalised the signing of Casey for the forthcoming season. He is a quality player who has played at the highest level in New Zealand rugby over a number of years. Casey is not only a hard tackling centre but also a top line-breaker with great footballing abilities who is a difficult man to bring down. Last season was a very successful one for the Cardiff Blues and we look forward to building on that platform supported by quality signings such as Casey as we make the move to our new home at Leckwith."

A regular in the Super 14 outfit Canterbury Crusaders, he featured 61 times despite missing a season through injury, scoring 20 tries along the way. The only disappointing news is that he won't arrive in the capitol until his Crusaders contract expires,

"I'm sure he will prove to be another strong addition to our squad when he eventually arrives later in the Autumn following his Air New Zealand Cup commitments to Canterbury."

Cardiff Blues also today confirmed the somewhat surprise signing of former Scarlets, Celtic Warriors and Harlequins utility back Dafydd James.

James, 33, departed the Scarlets this summer after having his contract controversially terminated. The 2001 British Lion and 48-times capped Welsh winger had a deal with the Scarlets until the end of 09/10, but having not featured since an injury in early September, the Welsh region decided to rip up the contract.

He told CardiffBlues.com,

"It's a great opportunity for me to join a team that is certainly on the up after their performances last season. It's an exciting time to join the Blues as they move to the new stadium. They are probably the best supported team in Wales and had a huge amount of support last season in their Heineken Cup and EDF Cup matches. It's and exiting time for me, I still have the desire to play for Wales and am totally motivated. I'm hungry to get back on the field and can't wait for the season to start."

His thoughts were echoed by head coach Dai Young, who spoke of his delight with both new arrivals,

"Having agreed a ten month deal through Peter Grigg of Chase Sports Management, we look forward to welcoming Dafydd to the Blues almost with immediate effect. He has proved with Scarlets, Wales and the Lions that he can consistently perform at the highest level and he will provide another significant option for our team."

"Dafydd, like Casey is also a hugely experienced player and will be a valuable addition to our squad. Both these signings help to strengthened our player base in a number of key areas in preparation for what is sure to be another intense period of highly competitive domestic and international rugby. With our commitment to the national side evidenced by the increased number of Cardiff Blues players in the Wales squad, quality players such as Casey and Dafydd will ensure our playing resources are not as stretched as they sometimes have been over recent seasons."

James will provide useful cover across the backs, as injuries, Interntaional call-ups and fatigue will limit the amount of games first team players will have. With Tom James and Tom Shanklin already confirmed casualties until October, he will undoubtedly have a role to play.

Laulala and James join Gavin Evans, Gareth Cooper and Sam Norton-Knight in joining the Blues squad for 09/10.

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