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RICO Gear believes Chris Latham will be a great re-placement for Japan-bound full-back Thinus Delport.

The Warriors' All Black winger has kept a close eye on this season's Super 14 competition and is excitied about linking up with Wallaby number 15 Latham.

The Aussie ace has been in impressive form for the Queensland Reds in the early stages of this year's tournament.

However, Gear, who played for the Crusaders and the Blues in the Super Rugby competitions before moving to Sixways, understands why Latham has opted to join him at Worcester.

The Kiwi paceman said: "We are losing Thinus but we have a great replacement coming in Chris.

He has got a great boot on him and he might kick some goals for us so he is definitely going to be a real added bonus for us next season.

"If you look at the Reds team, they have got a strong starting line-up - especially Chris.

"I'm not surprised he is coming over.

"You actually get a little bored playing in the Super 14. I have always played in it and you face the same guys and the same venues, there is nothing new.

"I guess a lot of the international guys come here looking for a new challenge and a fresh start.

"I still watch the Super 14 when I can. My former team, the Crusaders, look good and have been doing ok. They have fallen off the last few weeks but they have certainly got the talent.

"The other thing I have been watching, apart from the Super 14, is the Six Nations. Wales won it and they have a New Zealand coach so I sort of have to back them."

Gear also added that he will be looking to get his hands on the ball as often as possible in Warriors' remaining Guinness Premiership games this term.

The 29-year-old said: "I never set try targets - never have done. My big target this year is more involvement in the games. Just trying to get my hands on the ball and as many touches as I can in a game.

"As wingers, we are always trying to get more involved which can be difficult. When it is the weather for forward play, you can struggle to get a touch.

"But, if I get a chance, I plan to show what I am about and really help the team move on."

9:35am Saturday 22nd March 2008

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