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Casey Lailala in action for Cardiff Blues - Source: Getty Images
Irish Rugby club Munster today announced the signing of former All Black Casey Laulala, as their second major signing of the 2012/13 season.
Laulala - who signed from Welsh side Cardiff Blue - will join Irish Centre James Downey in the Munster midfield at the end of his current season, and has signed a two year deal.
The 29 year-old made his test debut for the All Blacks in 2004 and went on to win three caps. Laulala played Super 14 Rugby with the Crusaders and Air New Zealand Cup with Canterbury before moving to Cardiff, making his debut against Connacht in December 2009.
Laulala scored 14 tries in 58 appearances for the Welsh side and coach Tony McGahan said it was a sign of the clubs ambition.
"The club is obviously delighted that we've managed to secure the services of a player of his undoubted calibre for the next two seasons." McGahan told the Irish Examiner
"I believe it shows the ambition that Munster Rugby harbors for the years ahead and I think it speaks volumes that a high quality player such as Casey chooses to come to Munster ahead of a very impressive chasing pack."
"We're only too well aware of his rugby capabilities having come up against him first hand for the past number of seasons and believe he will not only have a strong contribution on-field but also act as a mentor to the emerging back talent we have in our squad."
Laulala said he was looking forward to experiencing life in Ireland.
"I've enjoyed myself very, very much here at the Blues and was fortunate enough to win the Amlin Challenge Cup with them in my first season here," he said.
"My family and me have thoroughly enjoyed our time in Cardiff and I'd like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for welcoming me.
"I guess this is a fresh challenge for me, it's something new and hopefully the Munster welcome will be as warm as the one I experienced here in Cardiff.
"Munster are a very successful team so I'm looking forward to joining them and experiencing life in Ireland. However, there is still a lot of rugby to be played this season so I am still fully focused on doing well for the Blues."
