Rugby: Atiga third in 2007 reunion

Ben Atiga. Photo / Getty Images

Auckland have gone back to the future by adding old boy Ben Atiga to their ranks for 2010.

Atiga's signing comes on the back of those of Brent Ward and Daniel Braid. All were key players in 2007, Auckland's last successful campaign.

Coach Mark Anscombe says the trio's arrival will help bolster the leadership qualities of a young and inexperienced side.

Ward, whose best seasons were with the Hurricanes in 2003 and 2004, has returned from a two-year stint with Racing Metro in Paris. A fullback who can play wing, he is a deceptive footballer who surprised many with his pace and ability to ghost past tackles.

"Not only is a he a good Auckland boy, we are a little bit short of leadership so Brent was ideal in that regard," Anscombe said. "He has won championships, has huge experience and no one should underestimate what young players learn from having someone like that in the squad."

Atiga is a one-test All Black - a surprise call-up to the World Cup squad in 2003 when Ben Blair had to return home.

Atiga was Auckland captain in 2008 but took a break from playing professionally to pursue a business opportunity.

Capable of playing across the midfield or fullback, the 26-year-old will have to undergo a punishing fitness regime before the start of the competition in July. Since taking time out, he's risen from his fighting weight of 95kg to close to 115kg.

"Benny became a professional footballer straight out of school and he felt he needed to try something different and experience life away from rugby," said Anscombe.

"He's done that and he's in a really good mental space now and, just like Brent, he can add leadership to our environment."

Braid will also provide leadership but it's uncertain for how long he'll be available. The All Black selectors have suggested Braid will be close to making their squad but he must play for Auckland first.

NZRU chief executive Steve Tew says the expectation is that Braid will have to play a full campaign before he is eligible, although an exception could be made in the same way it was done for Luke McAlister.