Benji Marshall switches to rugby union in bid for Olympic gold and All Blacks jersey

Former New Zealand rugby league captain Benji Marshall completed his switch to rugby union by signing a two-year contract with Super Rugby's Auckland Blues yesterday as he begins his quest for an All Blacks jersey and an Olympic gold medal in sevens.

The 28-year-old Marshall will leave Sydney's West Tigers at the end of the National Rugby League club's season on September 7 and return to his homeland to begin preparations for the 2014 Super Rugby season under John Kirwan at the Blues.

"I'm really excited. It has been a bit of a process because it's obviously a big decision for Benji but he's really excited about the challenge and we're thrilled to have someone with his professionalism and ability in the organisation," Kirwan said.

"I think it's going to be a great journey for us all."

Marshall, who won the rugby league World Cup in 2008, has made no secret of his wish to become a dual international and to also push for a place in the All Blacks sevens squad for the 2016 Rio Games when the sport makes its Olympic return.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen and sevens coach Gordon Tietjens had previously welcomed news that Marshall was considering the switch to union, with both stating they believed he could succeed in either form of the game.