Rugby: Guildford re-signs with Crusaders

The Crusaders announced last night that wing Zac Guildford (l) has re-signed for another year. Photo / Getty Images.

The Crusaders announced last night that wing Zac Guildford has re-signed for another year.

The 24-year-old has been a Crusader since 2010 and is set to play his 58th game for the franchise this weekend against the Chiefs.

Guildford, who was part of New Zealand's successful World Cup campaign in 2011, was first selected for the All Blacks for the end of year tour in 2009 and was the youngest player in the squad.

He has also represented New Zealand in sevens, competing in the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi where he was a member of the gold-mdeal winning team.

Sadly though, his career has also been littered with alcohol-related incidents but after coming clean about his problems earlier this year he appears to have put those issues behind him.

``I am excited to be extending my contract with the Crusaders for another year. I love playing for them,'' Guildford said. ``The Crusaders are like a family and they have been really supportive of me during my career. It is important to help repay that loyalty and I hope that I can do that on the paddock for them.''

Crusaders head coach Todd Blackadder was delighted with Guildford's decision: ``Zac is an important asset to the Crusaders. He has terrific speed, an impressive workrate and a knack for finding the gap. Despite his off-field issues he is a key part of the Crusaders family and we are delighted that he is staying with us.''

Guildford has also re-signed with the Hawke's Bay magpies and will join the team in August for their ITM Cup campaign.

Meanwhile, the Crusaders also confirmed that fullback Israel Dagg would stay with the Crusaders until the end of his contract in 2014.