Rugby: Berryman mulling over his future

Northland's effort in finishing sixth in the NPC first-division rugby championship this season has prompted Norman Berryman to reconsider plans to move to Canterbury next year.

Berryman has received several offers to move away from Northland, including lucrative contracts from Britain, France and South Africa.

But it is an offer from Canterbury to base himself in Christchurch full-time next season and play in the Super 12 and NPC for them that is proving most tempting.

However, the blockbusting utility back is in two minds after revelling in the atmosphere of the Northland team this season.

His heart wants to remain with Northland, but his wallet and ambition for another taste of All Black rugby may deem otherwise.

"The way we played this season has just buzzed me out. There was heaps of mana in the way we played as a team this year. I reckon I'd rather stay and be part of it again next season," Berryman said.

The offer from Canterbury, which is understood to guarantee Berryman a Super 12 contract with the Canterbury Crusaders, may be too good to turn down.

As speculation grew in recent months about his playing future, Berryman said he had chosen to concentrate on his form on the field and leave the contract negotiations to agents.

Berryman made his debut for Northland as an 18-year-old in 1991 and he briefly made the All Blacks for their visit to South Africa in 1998.

He was a member of the Crusaders teams who won the Super 12 title in 1998 and again this year.

He said he was considering just one offer, from Canterbury.

"It has been on the table going up and down, backwards and forwards, for about four months now. I just want to get it sorted out now," he said.

Northland coach Bryce Woodward hopes Berryman will stay with the province.

He said: "Apart from probably one game this season Normy has been superb this season." - NZPA