NZ star Gear signs for Worcester

Gear has a wealth of top-class experience in New Zealand

Worcester have pulled off the biggest signing in their history by landing New Zealand international winger Rico Gear on a three-year deal.

The 29-year-old has played in the Super 12/14 competition for the Highlanders, Auckland and Canterbury, and scored 10 tries in 18 New Zealand appearances.

"Rico is one of the best finishers in the game," said Worcester director of rugby Mike Ruddock.

"We wanted to make a statement about our ambition as a club."

Listen: Mike Ruddock on signing Rico Gear

Gear follows fellow All Blacks Sam Tuitupou and Greg Rawlinson, Fiji international Netani Talei, Samoa star Loki Crichton and front row giant Shaun Ruwers as new arrivals at Sixways following the club's survival in the Premiership last season.

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"Mike Ruddock phoned me directly to speak to me personally at length on a number of occasions and that was a big point for me in my decision making," said Gear.

"I wanted to hear what his plans were and I was immediately attracted to Warriors by his passionate vision for the club alongside chairman Cecil Duckworth.

"I know this is the right club for me and my family at the right time in my career."

New Zealand coach Graham Henry has called the exodus of All Blacks stars to European clubs a "huge problem" in the global game, but Ruddock says that there needs to be perspective.

"I'm sure that Graham and [All Blacks assistant] Steve Hansen enjoyed their time coaching in Wales," said Ruddock.

"They sampled a different rugby culture, and I'm sure that they wouldn't want to take a similar opportunity away from players who are perhaps nearing the end of their international careers."