Taine To Bring A Bit Of All Black Magic

"We're naturally very pleased to confirm Taine's signature today," explained Sinderberry. "And we're delighted that he has decided to begin the next phase of his career at the club."

"Not only does he bring a wealth of experience both on and off the field, he also has great leadership skills after leading both his province and country. Taine's signature brings an end to activity in the transfer market and we're now confident that we have a squad that can take the club forwards over the next few seasons."

Taine has accumulated 51 caps playing at either flanker or Number 8, 19 of these caps appearing as captain, a job he also enjoyed with Otago.

Captain of the All Black side that was at the wrong end of a shock 43-31 defeat by France in the semi-finals in the 1999 World Cup, Taine is a resilient character and bounced back from the experience. A relaxed individual who obviously enjoys his rugby as well as the social elements that go hand in hand with the sport, he will provide invaluable support to the younger members of the squad as well as helping to keep the senior players on their toes.

Taine was recently seen on these shores in the famous Barbarians strip, captaining the tour party that included two of his new team mates Raphael Ibanez and Thomas Castaignede. Not long after this appearance he then pulled on the New Zealand Maori jersey to take on England in Wellington, New Zealand.

"I'm very excited about the next phase of my career and can't wait to get settled in at the club," said Taine this morning. "I know how ambitious the club is and I am looking forward to playing my part in getting the club back to where they belong."

Saracens will take on Roma in the 1st Round of the European Challenge Cup which kicks off on the weekend of 5/6/7th December 2003