Marshall joined Montpellier from the Ospreys last summer

Former New Zealand scrum-half Justin Marshall has made a surprise move to Saracens until the end of the season.

The ex-All Black, 35, was suspended by his French club Montpellier last week for allegedly refusing to go on as a late replacement in a Top 14 match.

Sarries have moved to secure Marshall after losing first-choice scrum-half Neil de Kock for two-to-three months with a broken arm.

Marshall previously played in England with Leeds and in Wales at the Ospreys.

He made a surprise exit from the Welsh region last summer, after leaving Leeds in April 2006 following their relegation from the Guinness Premiership.

Marshall won 81 caps for the All Blacks during his international career and helped Canterbury Crusaders to win the Super 12 championship - now the Super 14 - on four occasions.

He will link up with Saracens this weekend, but will not be considered for the European Challenge Cup clash against Viadana at Vicarage Road on Sunday.

Sarries director of rugby Eddie Jones said: "Justin is one of the most experienced scrum-halves in the world and a really tough competitor.

"He will provide great support for (scrum-halves) Moses (Rauluni) and Mickey (Wilson), and we are lucky to be able to sign someone with his knowledge of the game."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version