Andy Ellis

Crusaders scrumhalf Andy Ellis has committed to the Crusaders for 2015, but will first play a season for the Kobe Steel Kobelco Steelers rugby club in Japan.

Ellis said he was excited about the opportunity to play in a new environment and a new competition for a season but remained committed to his teams here in New Zealand.

“I love playing for Canterbury and the Crusaders and I would love the chance to represent New Zealand again if the opportunity ever came up.”

“This is certainly not a sign of my playing days in New Zealand coming to an end, I am just fortunate to have the ability to play rugby in Japan, which is something I’ve always wanted to do, and then return home to continue with the Crusaders.”

Ellis said he was particularly keen to play for the Kobelco Steelers having spent time in Kobe in the past when his parents lived and worked there for three years.

“My family and I just love the city and the Japanese culture so we are really excited about the adventure we have in front of us.”

Crusaders head coach Todd Blackadder said Ellis went to Japan with their blessing but the Crusaders are thrilled to be retaining the talent and experience that Ellis offers.

“Andy has been such a loyal servant to New Zealand rugby and he fully deserves this opportunity to go and gain some international experience.”

“We are fully supportive of Andy’s decision to play in Japan, but especially pleased that he’s committed to returning to the Crusaders at the end of his season in Kobe,” Blackadder said.

“Andy has so much more to offer New Zealand rugby so it is fantastic that he continues to see his future here. He is a core member of the Crusaders team and we are grateful that we will continue to reap the benefits of his experience, energy and personality both on and off the field.”

Ellis’s contract with the Kobelco Steelers begins at the conclusion of Super Rugby and he is likely return to Christchurch in February 2015, which may see him miss the early stages of the 2015 season.