Current All Blacks captain, Sam Cane, has recently declared his plans to return to Japanese club rugby at the conclusion of the season, thereby ending his career in international rugby. The 32-year-old flanker has decided to accept an extended contract with Suntory Sungoliath, a club where he has been playing during his sabbatical, and will therefore not be eligible to represent New Zealand in rugby anymore.
Cane acknowledged that Suntory Sungoliath provided him with an appealing offer in the form of a three-year contract. He analysed his options and stated that the move seemed the most advantageous for his young family and their future stability. It has been unclear whether Cane was going to retain his captaincy of the All Blacks under their new coach, Scott Robertson, but his decision to step away from international tests at the end of the season has confirmed that he will not.
Robertson expressed understanding and respect for Cane’s decision: “It’s a demanding position mentally and physically, even more so for a captain. So it’s a remarkable achievement to have performed in that role for as long as he has. I respect his decision to seize this new opportunity.”
Cane, a hardy openside flanker who has counteractive numerous injuries, started his Super Rugby career with the Waikato Chiefs in 2011 and made his testing debut the succeeding year. He was part of the victorious 2015 World Cup squad and a runner-up after being disqualified in the previous year’s tournament in France. Cane still retains eligibility to represent the All Blacks this year until the end of the Japanese season: “If I am lucky to be picked for the All Blacks this year, I will remain true to myself,” said Cane, who has captained his country in 27 tests. “I hold a deep affection for that team … if my role includes providing leadership on- and off-field, it would be my pleasure to support the new captain ensuring a seamless transition for the All Blacks.” (c) Copyright Thomson Reuters 2024.