Broomhall heads to France

Sam Broomhall

Former All Blacks loose forward Sam Broomhall is to join French rugby club ASM Clermont Auvergne.

Broomhall, who has played 56 matches for the Crusaders, will play his 61st and last match for Canterbury on August 20 when they are scheduled to defend the Ranfurly Shield against Bay of Plenty.

Capped four times for the All Blacks in 2002, Broomhall said he was sad to leave a region that had always been his home.

"However the timing and the opportunity is right for me and the family to travel and experience new challenges."

Broomhall, 28, was involved in two victorious Crusaders' campaigns and two NPC titles.

One of his most memorable moments was holding aloft the Ranfurly Shield as captain after last year's win against Bay of Plenty.

Crusaders coach Robbie Deans said Broomhall had been an integral part of both Canterbury and the Crusaders teams, while Canterbury coach Aussie McLean said he was one of those players who always made a strong commitment to his teammates.

"He's just such a humble, giving person as well as being an outstanding athlete," McLean said.

"I would say that within the last 12 months, for Canterbury and the Crusaders, Sam's been playing the best rugby of his career."

Broomhall's new club, which includes seasoned internationals Stephen Jones, of Wales, South African Breyton Paulse and New Zealand-produced French representative Tony Marsh, has qualified for next year's Heineken Cup.

Broomhall has signed with the club for two years.

- NZPA