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Blues Pair Renew Deals

Blues Pair Renew Deals
By Andrew Collins January 16 2008
Cardiff Blues Kiwi duo Xavier Rush and Ben Blair have signed three year extensions on their current contracts. The pair have been pivotal in the last 2 years, with Rush even taking the regional captains arm band, while Blair has become first choice place kicker.

The news comes as a huge relief to fans, especially after my article about Blair leaving the Arms Park. Apologies if I got anybody worried, but my information came from an interview between Blair and a New Zealand rugby magazine as well as hearsay from people involved in the club.

It's also reassuring to have two of the clubs top stars resign, after Llanelli Scarlets supporters saw the announcement of home grown Lion Dwayne Peel leave the region for Sale.

Xavier' stock in particular has risen massively in the last 2 years, with admirers from all over the northern hemisphere, while Blair was the Blues player of the year last season.

With Strady's own Kiwi import, Regan King, also linked with a move to the Ospreys, these contract renewals ensure they will be at the Arms Park (and Stade De Ridsdale) until at least 2011.

Dai Young today commented on the key renewals saying;

"I think both players have made big impacts since they've arrived. They make a big contribution to helping us move forward, and it's pleasing to retain two quality players."

It means pretty much all the key re-signings have taken place now, allowing Young to commit himself to attracting players to the region.

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