Justin Marshall has revealed boredom was the main factor in his decision to end his All Black career and move to Leeds.
Marshall, 31, said yesterday he couldn't drum up the enthusiasm to stay and play when the Tri Nations is expanded in 2006.
"To be honest, the Super 12
and Tri Nations does not enthuse me. I have been playing against the same teams since 1996. I would have liked to have seen something different. . I would have liked to see things go a bit more global.
"The idea of taking the All Blacks to places like Canada and the US, even Japan would have been a new and different experience."
Marshall said the time was right to take on a new challenge. So did Leeds. The club Marshall was asked if he would be willing to play for the Rhinos against the Bulldogs in the World Series next month.
"They asked me if I wanted to play and I said 'absolutely', but I don't think the New Zealand Rugby Union would release me.
Marshall, who has 77 test caps, will play in the Super 12 for the Crusaders and then hopes to make the All Black side for the Lions tests in June and July before heading to the UK.
- HERALD ON SUNDAY
