English Premiership: All Blacks scrumhalf Justin Marshall has set his sights on "new challenges" with English Premiership strugglers Leeds after signing a lucrative two-year contract at Headingley.

Marshall will join Leeds after this summer's Lions trip to New Zealand, when he hopes to feature in the three-Test series against the tourists.

Leeds have hailed his move - from four-time Super 12 champions Canterbury Crusaders - as the club's highest-profile signing in its history.

Marshall though, can only hope that the Yorkshire outfit retain Premiership status, given their current position just one point above bottom-placed Harlequins.

The 31-year-old has won 77 caps during a Test career that began in 1995, and only five New Zealand players have registered more international tries than his current tally of 24.

He also captained the All Blacks on their 1997 tour, helped them win three Tri-Nations titles and featured during two World Cup campaigns.

"When I look back over the last 10 years of my playing career in New Zealand, I feel incredibly satisfied at all I have experienced and achieved," Marshall said.

"As a kid, my dream was to one day wear the All Black jersey. To have been fortunate enough to wear the number nine jersey throughout the last 10 years has certainly been an honour and given me memories I will never forget.

"Leeds will present new challenges. It's exciting to have the opportunity to set new goals and compete in a different competition."

All Blacks coach Graham Henry added: "I fully understand why Justin is making the change at this stage of his career.

"While we never like losing world-class players from our ranks, there is no doubting that he has served New Zealand rugby well over a long period of time. This is a lifestyle and professional opportunity for both Justin and his family."

Leeds are one of six clubs currently separated by just seven points in the Premiership's bottom half, and they made an early exit from this season's European Challenge Cup competition, but confirmation of Marshall's signature should give the Leeds squad a considerable lift.

"Justin is a world-class player who will add greatly to the group of players already assembled, with his professionalism both on and off the field," said Leeds rugby director Phil Davies.

"We are excited about Justin joining us, and wish him all the best for the remainder of his time in New Zealand."

And Leeds Rugby chief executive Gary Hetherington said: "We are delighted that Justin has agreed to join us for next season. It is a major boost to our ambitions for the Tykes."