Monday 26 May 2014 06:45, UK
The Blues have confirmed the signing of former London Irish and Leicester back Dan Bowden on a two-year deal.
Bowden, who can play at fly-half or in the centre, will return to his native Auckland in time for the 2015 Super Rugby season.
The 28-year-old has previously spells with the Highlanders and Crusaders, while he has been capped by New Zealand at Schools, Under-17, U19 and U21 levels.
“I’m really excited to be returning home along with my four-month-old baby and wife. I had opportunities to stay in the UK but coming back to be around my family and playing for the Blues is something I’ve always wanted to do,” Bowden told the club’s official site.
“I’ve spent time playing with the Highlanders and Crusaders but playing for my hometown team has always been an ambition of mine and I’m hoping to finally fulfil that.
“It was the team I grew up supporting and wanting to play for and I’ve taken the long way around to get to it. I was involved in the Blues Wider Training Group in 2005 so it’s been a long time coming but I’m excited to join the Blues and get back to playing Super Rugby.”
