Holwell back to where it all started

David Holwell is walking away from a lucrative contract with Irish team Leinster to return home to play provincial rugby for Northland.

"It was just time for the family to come home and a great chance for me to come back and finish the career where it all started, with Northland," Holwell said. "I'm pretty excited about it actually."

Holwell made his provincial debut for Northland in 1995 but left and linked up with Wellington in 1999, where he became noted as one of the most reliable goalkicking first five-eighths in the game. He played for the Hurricanes in the Super 12, and went on to captain Wellington and the Hurricanes before picking up a contract with Dublin-based Leinster. His signing is a big boost for a Northland team who have been struggling in the NPC first division.

Northland union chief executive Tim Hamilton said Holwell's decision had come after months of contractual discussions.

"He has initially committed to the 2005 season but has clearly indicated his desire to continue beyond this," Hamilton said. "It is quite refreshing to have a man of that sort of character and stature want to pull on the blue jersey.

"He will add significant value to the team in terms of his experience and this, combined with his leadership and all-round skills as a player, makes him a valuable asset in Northland's quest to re-establish themselves as a force in the NPC."

- NZPA