All Blacks happy with Benji Marshall signing with Blues

It says a lot when an All Black front rower grins like a kid on Christmas morning.

Hence, hooker Keven Mealamu's reaction today to the news Benji Marshall will join him at the Blues next season spoke volumes.

''There is a lot of excitement around, especially among the Blues boys here and I think we are all excited to have him come on board,'' Mealamu said when asked what he made of the league stars code switch.

''We're looking forward to catching up and we can't wait to see him. I've watched a lot of him play over the years and always been a big fan so getting an opportunity to play along side him will be pretty special.''

Mealamu was unsure where Marshall would play in the Blues backline, but said his arrival wouldn't change his own job too much.

''For us its always our job to just provide the platform [for the backs]. No matter who it is, our job never changes. 

Former Tigers. Benji Marshall. Getty Images

''I'm not a coach, so I don't really know where he'd play. I suppose he slots in anywhere in that backline.''

Marshall's signing of a two-year contract with the Blues was the first point of conversation around the All Blacks Wellington hotel today.

And No 8 Kieran Read was among those to give the Kiwis and Tigers NRL star play maker a tick of approval.

''It's exciting. He's a player you enjoy watching hopefully he comes across and goes pretty well. We'll have to wait and see, but he's talented.

''I think he'll come into a team [the Blues] that probably suits him and he'll be allowed to showcase his talents.''

But Read also cautioned people should not expect miracles from a player who had spent his career playing league.

''Its a different game so he'll take his time and hopefully come good.''

© Fairfax NZ News