New signing will boost Chiefs’ versatility, says Rennie

The Chiefs have nabbed utility back Tom Marshall from the Crusaders for the next two seasons.

The 1.83m, 96kg utility back will move to Hamilton at the conclusion of his ITM Cup campaign with Tasman.

Chiefs head coach Dave Rennie said he had enjoyed working with Marshall when in charge of the New Zealand under-20 team in 2010 and he felt Marshall was a great fit for the defending Super Rugby champions.

The addition of Marshall is set to provide crucial cover in the backs, with a number of experienced players set to depart at the end of the season, and it will strengthen the competition for positions within the side.

‘‘In the end we’re looking for more versatility at the back,’’ Rennie said.

‘‘We’re losing guys like Lelia Masaga and Richard Kahui – the ones who can play sort of out wide.

‘‘We’ve got a lot of flexibility within our squad and we’re trying create competition for places so it’s a really good signing from our point of view.

Marshall said he was ‘‘keen to reunite’’ with Rennie.

‘‘I am keen to push for more starting opportunities in my preferred position so the change was appealing,’’ Marshall said.

Marshall has played 40 matches for the Crusaders and a further games 26 for Tasman.