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Thomas completes code switch to Crusaders
13:45, Mar 5 2010
Former Wales and British Lions captain Gareth Thomas has completed his cross-code move to Engage Super League club Crusaders.
The Wrexham-based outfit ended days of speculation when they announced the capture of the 35-year-old full-back or three-quarter, who is the most capped Welsh player of all time, at a press conference at the Racecourse Ground on Friday afternoon.
"I am really excited by the ambition of the Crusaders and playing for someone of the experience and reputation of Brian Noble and Iestyn Harris really excites me," said Thomas.
"This move was not about money but about a chance of a fresh challenge on the field and an opportunity to promote rugby in north Wales off the field."
Thomas, who won 100 caps for Wales and captained the Lions against New Zealand in 2005, is the first significant convert since rugby union went professional in 1995.
Crusaders chairman Ian Roberts said: "This is a truly monumental day in the Crusaders' history.
"Getting a player of Gareth Thomas' stature and ability at the Racecourse is a major coup for us. We're building something special here at Wrexham. We want rugby league to succeed in north Wales."
Thomas has signed a contract covering the rest of this season with an option on a second season and will start training immediately under Noble and the rest of the Crusaders coaching staff after being released from contract with Cardiff Blues.
"I think Gareth Thomas is a fabulous player," said Noble. "He's an amazing athlete and I'm a huge fan of his talents.
"He's in fantastic shape and has clearly looked after himself over the years."
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