By Jason Harris (filed 23/6/03)
June 23 2003

It has been reported in the New Zealand press over the weekend that the rumoured transfer of former All Blacks captain Taine Randell to Saracens is a "done deal", according to "sources close to the player". Randell lost his place in the national side after leading them in last autumn's tour of the northern hemisphere and has been unable to push himself back into John Mitchells plans during 2003, fuelling speculation that he was to quit New Zealand rugby and head to Europe.

But the Highlanders no8, who also captained the Barbarians in their end of season tour, is believed to have a get out clause in the contract with Sarries should the All Blacks coach change his mind and he is selected for the the upcoming World Cup.

Randell's current contract with the New Zealand RFU expires on 25 August; about the same time as Mitchell will decide on the squad he will take to Australia for rugby's showpiece tournament.

Saracens have made it no secret that they have been in the market for an experienced no8 and for players that are able to lead from the front.

The 28-year-old who has won 51 caps for New Zealand was rumoured to be a target for the Men in Black last month to come in to do a job in a position that has not seen regular occupancy since the departue in 2001 of one of Sarries' favourite sons Tony Diprose.

Another former New Zealand no8 - Saracens Head Coach Wayne Shelford - will have his future with the club decided later this week after the completion of an end of season review.

Chief Executive Mark Sinderberry said last week that, despite countless media reports of a wholesale coaching clear-out, no decision had yet been taken on the fates of Shelford, assistant coaches Darrell Shelford and Tim Wright and fitness coach Pat Fox. However, the former ACT Brumbies boss said that a statement will be made some time in the next few days.