Gloucester add Super Marshall
Following a number of key re-signings, Gloucester have made their first new signing ahead of the 2015-16 season with Tom Marshall moving to Kingsholm from Super Rugby's Chiefs.
24-year-old Marshall will be the first new signing from outside of the club since Director of Rugby David Humphreys started in post in August.
The Auckland born player is a former New Zealand Under-20 international who has represented Tasman Makos in the NPC Cup and the Crusaders and Chiefs in Super Rugby.
Having played 56 games for the very successful Crusaders in Super Rugby, Tom moved to the Chiefs in 2013 and was involved in every game of this year's competition.
His experience of two very successful franchises will be a huge asset to Gloucester Rugby as the Club continues to develop both on and off the pitch.
Capable of playing at centre, on the wing or at fullback, Marshall will give Gloucester plenty of options upon his arrival.
David Humphreys told the club website that he's delighted to secure Marshall's services.
"As well as renewing contracts with key members of the current squad, we've also been looking at individual players from outside the squad who we believe can add depth across a number of positions and strengthen the existing playing group.
"Tom's played a significant number of Super Rugby games and has impressed whilst with both the Crusaders and the Chiefs. Yet he's still only 24 and we believe has his best years ahead of him in a Gloucester shirt.
"He's got good physical presence but is also a top quality footballer, whose versatility will give us a number of options across the back line and we look forward to him linking up with us once his contractual obligations to the NZRU have ended."
Meanwhile, Marshall spoke with enthusiasm about the prospect of testing himself in the northern hemisphere.
"I'm very excited about the move up north to Gloucester. The club plays an exciting brand of rugby and offers a great playing opportunity with exceptional coaching and training facilities.
"I've also heard the city is passionate about rugby, with Kingsholm Stadium providing a special atmosphere on game day. I'm looking forward to being part of and contributing to this in the years to come."
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