Gloucester grab a Crusader

 

The 28-year-old will join the current Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw and the hugely promising Callum Braley as scrumhalf options for the Cherry and Whites from 2015-16.

 

Heinz has captained Canterbury in the NPC, represented the Crusaders more than 50 times in Super Rugby, and gained huge popularity with the Canterbury supporters.

 

And his signing is a very important one for Gloucester admits Director of Rugby David Humphreys:

 

"Scrumhalf is a key position in any side and, with Dan Robson choosing to move on at the end of the season, we wanted to add some experience and strength in depth to our half backs.

 

"We already have two quality No.9s in Greig Laidlaw, the current Scotland captain, and Callum Braley, who we believe will develop into an International scrumhalf. 

 

Adding Willi to the mix will give us another option and someone who brings experience and leadership qualities to our young playing group.

 

"And that's going to be more important than ever next season with World Cup commitments and the nature of the domestic and European fixture calendar once that tournament is over.

 

"Willi has been a stand out performer in a Crusaders side that hasn't finished any lower than fourth in Super Rugby since 2001.

 

His experience of playing in that competition, for such a successful franchise will be a very welcome addition to our squad.

 

"We've been speaking to him for quite some time now and I know that he's genuinely excited to be joining us. 

 

"I think he's going to play a very key role over the next few years, not just in terms of how he plays but how he brings the best out of the people around him.”

 

Meanwhile, speaking to the club website from New Zealand, Heinz commented that he's looking forward hugely to continuing his rugby career in the Northern Hemisphere.

 

"I've always taken an interest in the Premiership, it's hard, tough rugby and an outstanding competition. And there's the chance to play in Europe as well, which is an added draw. It's an intriguing prospect and I'm looking forward to taking part in it.

 

"Since starting to talk to David [Humphreys], I've started to watch as much of Gloucester as I can. They seem to play a really exciting brand of footy and the whole club seems pretty driven to get back to the top of the English game.

 

"It's my understanding that Gloucester traditionally is a stronghold of English rugby. That appeals to me and I'm excited about doing what I can to contribute to something like that.”