Sam Cane leaves All Blacks

Sam Cane, the captain of the All Blacks, New Zealand’s national rugby team, has announced he will leave the team to play in Japan. This year will be his last with the All Blacks as he has signed a three-year contract with the Japanese club, Suntory Goliath. This move will also see him stepping down as captain, a role he has cherished.

Cane, 32, has played in 95 international games and served as captain in 27 of those. His new contract in Japan means he will not complete the final year of his current deal with New Zealand Rugby, which was set to end in 2025. Instead, he is moving to Tokyo with his wife Harriet, their two-year-old son Hudson, and their expected second child.

This decision wasn’t made lightly, as Cane expressed both pride in his time as captain and practical considerations for his family’s future. He noted the physical and mental demands of his position and expressed gratitude for the experiences and growth it provided.

Looking forward, All Blacks’ new head coach Scott Robertson and the team will prepare for this transition, with Scott Barrett and Ardie Savea among the favorites to become the next captain. Cane has expressed his willingness to support the team and the new captain in any role necessary during his final year.

This move marks a significant change for Cane, who recalls both triumphs and challenging moments during his tenure, including a poignant memory from last year’s World Cup final. Coach Robertson has voiced his full understanding and support for Cane’s decision, acknowledging the incredible commitment required to lead a team like the All Blacks