Waratahs utility and Southern Districts flyhalf Ben Volavola has signed a two-year deal with the Crusaders.

Speaking exclusively to Rugby News just moments after signing his contract, Volavola confirmed he turned down an offer from the Queensland Reds to join the seven time Super Rugby champions.

“Their track record speaks for itself,” Volavola told Rugby News.

“I just wanted to go into another great program to try and grow as a person and a rugby player and hopefully fulfil my potential.”

With flyhalf Dan Carter heading to France to play with Racing Metro in 2016, Volavola is being touted as a likely replacement, yet the humble 24 year-old isn’t getting too far ahead of himself.

“He’s always been a player I’ve looked up to. He’s been the best 10 in the world for a while now, but I don’t want to be compared to him, because that is just going to put more pressure on my shoulders,” he said.

Volavola made just eight appearances in his three years at the Waratahs, playing behind Wallabies Bernard Foley and Israel Folau.

“It’s been really frustrating to be honest. You train every day with the boys and you just really want to get an opportunity.”

“At the same time, I’ve learnt a lot in the three years, so I wouldn’t have swapped it for anything,” he added.

Volavola will continue playing with Southern Districts for the next month, before joining Fiji for the Pacific Nations Cup in an attempt to earn a spot in Fiji’s Rugby World Cup squad.

“It’s every kids dream to play in a Rugby World Cup. It’s always been my dream so I’m blessed to have the opportunity to put my name forward and hopefully make the squad.”