Rugby League star Benji Marshall has confirmed he has begun talks with Super Rugby franchise Auckland Blues.
The New Zealand star, who captained his country to victory in the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, had previously announced that he would be leaving NRL side Wests Tigers and wanted to switch codes.
He was linked with the Blues and Super Rugby sides New South Wales Waratahs and ACT Brumbies.
But he admits he has ambitions to play for the All Blacks, and therefore he needs to play his domestic rugby in New Zealand.
Marshall, 28, held talks with Blues coach Sir John Kirwan and Chief Executive Andy Dalton on Friday.
"Preferably I'd like to come here (in New Zealand)," said Marshall. "I've got to take into account all my options but the opportunity to maybe one day play for the All Blacks is a pretty big motivator for me.
"Obviously I'm pretty nervous about that but at the same time excited at the prospect of having the opportunity.
"I think I can play a few positions. I'd like to be in control so 10, 12 or even 15. It's looking promising, if it all works out according to plan then hopefully I do end up playing here."
His manager, Martin Tauber says Marshall has "a great desire to win and be part of a winning culture, and listening to John Kirwan and Andy Dalton has been exceptional." Source : http://www1.skysports.com/rugby-league/news/12555/8850918/rugby-league-star-benji-marshall-in-talks-with-super-rugby-side-auckland-blues
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