Crusaders sign All Black Dagg

The Canterbury Crusaders have moved to bolster their backline ahead of the inaugural Super 15 rugby season by signing promising All Black Israel Dagg to a two-year deal.

Fullback Dagg, who made his Test debut against Ireland at New Plymouth in June, will cross from Otago Highlanders, where he spent two seasons.

“He is a special talent and we’re sure he will fit in at the Crusaders very well,” Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said in a team release on Friday.

The 22-year-old, acclaimed as one of the country’s brightest young prospects, joins fellow All Blacks Dan Carter and captain Richie McCaw at the Christchurch-based Crusaders, who were the only New Zealand team to reach the Super semi-finals this year.