Rugby: Nutbrown returing to BOP

Jamie Nutbrown. Photo / Getty Images

Former Crusaders and Chiefs halfback Jamie Nutbrown is bucking the trend and returning to New Zealand rugby to link up with his former province, Bay of Plenty, in this year's national provincial championship.

Nutbrown, 29, who played for Bay of Plenty from 2006 until 2008, has penned a three-year deal with the Steamers after spending the past two years with Welsh club Ospreys.

"We are delighted to have Jamie back in the Steamers ranks after three years of playing top level rugby in the northern hemisphere," Bay of Plenty coach Sean Horan said.

"It gives us a rare opportunity to contract a quality player who knows what it means to be Bay proud. While he was a valuable member of the Steamers prior to his departure overseas, we know that Jamie will bring a fresh perspective to his game after the rigours of playing with and against the best in the northern hemisphere."

Horan expected Nutbrown would have an additional mentoring role with the latest crop of young halfbacks in the province.

The signing of the former Junior All Black comes two weeks after Bay of Plenty secured the services of former Wallabies and Reds second five-eighth Steve Kefu for this year's campaign.

- NZPA