Crusaders sign dual-code Kiwi

Crusaders Rugby League Club have signed Vince Mellars, a centre who used to be on the books of Crusaders Rugby Union side in New Zealand.

Mellars spent a year with the Super 14 club in 2008 but this was just a short break in his rugby league career.

He spent last season with NSW Cup side, Auckland Vulcans, the feeder team for New Zealand Warriors in the NRL.

The 25-year old, who can play on the wing or at centre, was born in Wellington, New Zealand and was brought up playing rugby league for junior sides in the area.

He signed for the Warriors as a teenager and made his NRL debut aged 19.

He went on to play for NRL clubs Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters as well as Newtown Jets in the NSW Premier League before his switch to union.

Mellars will join his new Crusaders squad next week.