Rugby: Guildford switches to Crusaders

Hawke's Bay winger Zac Guildford is shifting from the Hurricanes to the Crusaders for next year’s Super 14. Photo / Getty Images

Hawke's Bay winger Zac Guildford has signed with the Crusaders for next season's Super 14 rugby championship.

Guildford has spent the last two Super rugby seasons with the Hurricanes but faced a tough time getting game time ahead of players such as Hosea Gear, Cory Jane, Tamati Ellison, Ma'a Nonu and David Smith.

Crusaders chief executive Hamish Riach last night confirmed Guildford will transfer to Canterbury, making him available for the Crusaders, but will continue playing for Hawke's Bay in the Air NZ Cup.

Riach said Guildford agreed to transfer to Canterbury yesterday afternoon.

"We are delighted to have a player of Zac's quality available to the Crusaders."

Guildford, 20, played a starring role for the New Zealand under-20 side at the world championships in Japan in June.

"Zac is an exciting player and has the right character to do very well with the Crusaders," Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said.

"He has aspirations to achieve higher honours and has all the key attributes to make it.

"He has a great work ethic and is very down to earth. He will be a fantastic addition to our team."

- NZPA