Cardiff Blues can confirm they have signed both Xavier Rush and Ben Blair for a further three years.
The news follows on from last weeks announcements that both Gethin Jenkins and Robin Sowden Taylor have also signed long term contracts with the Blues.
Ben Blair joined the Blues in the summer of 2006 after ending his New Zealand club career on a winning note by helping Canterbury to victory against Otago, kicking a penalty and two conversions, in the Ranfurly Shield match at the Jade Stadium.
All four of his All Black test caps were earned overseas playing against Scotland & Argentina 2001, and then England & Wales in 2002. Only Simon Culhane has scored more points on debut for the All Blacks than Blairs 38 against Ireland A at Belfast in 2001.
A prolific goal kicker, Ben made his debut for Cardiff Blues against Leinster in Dublin in September 2006 and he kicked all the points for the Blues that evening. He reached the 100 point mark in the Magners League after only nine games.
Ben has made 41 appearances for the Blues scoring 337 points. His consistency as a goal kicker was recognised again last week when he had a 100% kicking rate in last Fridays Heineken Cup match against Harlequins.
His contribution to the team has also been recognised by the fans who awarded him the Supporters Club player of the season for the 2006/07
Xavier Rush has also signed until 2011 having joined the Cardiff Blues from the Auckland Blues in 2005. The Kiwi powerhouse was an instant hit with the fans. Both his aggressive attacking play and leadership qualities are appreciated by all and Rush was named Supporters Club Player of the Season in his first year.
Xavier was made Captain of the Cardiff Blues in the summer of 2006 and had enjoyed a very successful period as captain of the Auckland Blues winning the NPC title, Ranfurly Shield and clinching the Super 12 title. He has made 59 appearances for the Blues scoring 55 points.
Speaking of the announcements Cardiff Blues Director of rugby David Young said,
I think both players have made big impacts since theyve arrived and theyve been important players both on and off the field. They make a big contribution to helping us move forward and its pleasing to retain two quality players.
Its also a vote of confidence in us as well that they are seeing us move forward.
Speaking of the show down match against Bristol on Sunday David Young said,
Bristol have to go into this game as favourites, they dont lose in the Memorial Ground often.
We know how difficult they are to beat at home but we have to go there to do a job, and know that if we can get the result we are through to the quarter final, which is a big statement for us to make.
The Blues know it will not be an easy task. Bristol have only lost once at the Memorial Ground this season, going down 13-26 to the Guinness Premiership champions and last years Heineken Cup finalists, Leicester Tigers. They only lost once there last season also.
We also know we are going to have to bring everything to the table and everything we have talked about and planned has to come right. We are capable of that but its a massive challenge for us, added Young.
Its still a three horse race, but if we can play our best game we can get the result.
Tickets for the match are still available by calling Bristol Rugby ticket Office on 0871 208 2234 The Supporters Club are also organising coaches which can be booked by calling 07722 504180 and information on train tickets can be found by calling 0870 9000 773 or national rail enquiries on 08458 484950
The Cardiff Blues will be naming their side on Friday.