Ralph Denies Warriors Deal

By Lestyn
April 27 2004

Caleb Ralph has dismissed reports suggesting that he has signed a two-year deal with the Celtic Warriors. All Black Winger Ralph has denied holding any talks whatsoever.

Ralph has strenuously played down any suggestions that a move next season was on the cards; completely contradicting Warriors coach Lyn Howells.

"I am quite happy playing my rugby here in Canterbury. At the moment my focus is the Super 12 and I am concentrating on playing my best possible rugby for the Crusaders," said Ralph in the statement.

According to Lyn Howells, any possible deal hinges on Ralph not being selected for New Zealands’ autumn tour squad. Although NPC commitments with Canterbury could rule him out of the first few weeks anyway.

"All the reports are true and correct. If Caleb does not get selected for the All Blacks end of year tour to Europe, he will join the Warriors," Howells confirmed to a local paper in Christchurch.

"And all the feedback I got from Steve (Hansen) and Graham about him as a person has been really good as well, which is important at this region."

Unfortunately though Henry would not indicate whether or not Ralph was in his All Black plans.

Howells also admitted the region had initially ruled out following up their interest in 26 year old Ralph, but Gareth Thomas’s proposed Toulouse move, re-ignited their interest in the 13 times capped winger. Former Wales forwards coach Howells, may be tempted into playing Ralph in his preferred outside centre role.

Ralph has not been offered an increase from the original;

“We certainly did not offer any more money. It appeared there was simply some confusion over his conditions regarding All Blacks selection”

But Ralph’s comments if correct would end any hope of such a deal happening. For certainly not the first time confusion reigns in Warrior land.