Marshall takes offshore offer

Above photo: Taranaki's Rhys Marshall celebrates after scoring a try in the NPC final in 2014. Photo by Dave Lintott Photography

Chiefs and Taranaki hooker Rhys Marshall has signed a three-year deal with Irish club Munster and will leave after this year’s national provincial championship.  

The 23-year-old has been Taranaki’s first choice hooker since 2013 with 38 matches under his belt. He has also been one of three hookers for the Chiefs along with Nathan Harris and Hika Elliot.

Marshall is another Taranaki player who has decided to go overseas following the footsteps of Codey Rei, James Marshall, Jamison Gibson-Park, Angus To’avoa and Kurt Baker.

In a statement on Taranaki Rugby’s Facebook page, Marshall said he will leave in a few weeks’ time with mixed emotions.  

“I’ve decided to go away from what I know and love here in New Zealand, but I am really looking forward to getting out of my comfort zone to experience rugby in another passionate rugby nation”.  

Marshall said it might seem like he is crazy to leave New Zealand but is keen to ‘hone’ his trade in a new environment.  

“I do feel like I have unfinished business in New Zealand rugby and my long-term goal is to return here as an even better player to give it another crack in the future” he said.  

Marshall said he had been proud to wear his Inglewood and Taranaki jersey following the footsteps of his father, Ian and Grandfather, Les.  

“I will be back to wear those jerseys again”.  

Finally, Marshall thanked the Taranaki rugby family, players, coaches and teammates.