Rebels sign All Blacks centre

The Melbourne Rebels have signed Highlanders centre Tamati Ellison for the 2014 Super Rugby season.

The one-year deal will see the All Black centre join the struggling Melboune side in their fourth year of Super Rugby.

The experience and flair of Ellison will be welcomed into the backline after Wallaby stars Kurtley Beale and James O’Connor departed from the franchise.

“Tamati has the ability to play at a high level across a number of positions in the backline, which makes him a very important part of a Super XV squad in such a fast and demanding competition,” said new Rebels coach Tony McGahan said.

“He is a player who likes to express himself on the rugby field, and with this he will fit into the type of rugby we aim to play next season.”

Ellison accumulated 77 caps for the Highlanders throughout his stay at the club, but the 30-year old is excited for the new challenges ahead.

“My family and I are really excited about moving to Melbourne and the new opportunities that lay ahead,” said Ellison.

“The Rebels are building a very competitive team, and I’m looking forward to being a part of that.”

Source: Melbourne Rebels