By Andrew Collins
September 2 2006

Ben Blair was carried off the field by team mates following his final Canterbury performace.

The Kiwi full back played out his final game for home-town side Canterbury before he makes his round-the-world switch to the Cardiff Blues.

And he was sent away with a glowing report from CRFU CEO Hamish Riash, who claimed they would miss their home-grown hero;

"Since Ben's debut for Canterbury in August 1999, he has made an enormous contribution to the Canterbury jersey. He has consistently fronted time and time again on the paddock, with his goal-kicking success often being the difference between winning and not. His time in
the red and black jersey has coincided with many Ranfurly Shield triumphs and his place in the traditions of the Shield is secure. Ben is also highly professional in everything he does, and a great bloke - the whole of Canterbury salutes all that Ben has given to Canterbury rugby."

As the final whistle blew his team mates gathered and carried their man of the pitch to a rowsing applause from the New Zealand crowd.

As well as playing for Canterbury and The Crusaders, Blair spent two seasons on loan with the Highlanders in Super 14, where he made 23 out of a possible 24 appearances.

He started last nights game at full back and looked consistant and reliable. He was a safe kicking option and looked accomplished under the high ball.

Balir leaves on the highets of highs, having last night won the Ranfurly Sheild with the Red and Blacks, following a 22-17 win over second-placed Ortago. Blair converted all 3 conversions and added a penalty as they fought back from a 7-5 loss at the half.

He is expected in Wales mid September and could be on the bench for the visit of Glasgow on the 22nd of this month.

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theArmsPark.co.uk have followed this transfer for months and have kept you up to date with the latest news on the Ben Blair saga, even bringing you an exclusive from one of the regions top men.

We look forward to seeing Ben's arrival and starti.ng what we hope will be a successful few years with the Cardiff Blues.

See below for 3 stories on Ben Blair.