All Blacks captain Sam Cane confirmed Japan move after World Cup pain
New Zealand captain Sam Cane will take a year off from Super Rugby after the World Cup final defeat
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.New Zealand captain Sam Cane will play a season for Tokyo-based Suntory Sungoliath and take a year off from Super Rugby following the disappointment of the World Cup final.
Loose forward Cane was given a red card for a high tackle in the 12-11 defeat to South Africa in the decider in France, leaving the All Blacks with 14 men for most of the game.
The 31-year-old will take up a sabbatical option in his New Zealand contract to join the Japanese League One side Suntory for the 2023/24 season and will miss the Waikato Chiefs’ 2024 Super Rugby campaign, New Zealand Rugby said.
However, Cane will return to New Zealand next June to be available for selection for the international season.
“It wasn’t an easy decision to skip a season with the Chiefs, but I know the team is in a great place and has an incredible group of leaders in the squad and the coaching group to have a successful 2024,” said 95-test Cane in a statement.
“And I’m really pleased to be able to return in time to put my best foot forward for selection in the All Blacks.”
Cane, whose national contract runs through to the end of 2025, returned home to New Zealand this week after becoming the first player in World Cup history to be sent off in the final.
Cane said he had taken some solace from his mum’s advice about not beating himself up about the red card but admitted it would take a while to get over it.
“I think it’s something I’m going to have live with forever, unfortunately. It’s going to hurt for a while.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments