A 12-Test All Black who has been overlooked by new coach Dave Rennie will be continuing his career in Japan.
Samipeni Finau’s hopes of reviving his All Blacks career appear to be over after the Chiefs announced that the powerful loose forward has signed with the Yokohama Canon Eagles, becoming the latest New Zealand international to swap Super Rugby for Japan.
While he may have been in contention for selection later in the season, including the tour to South Africa, his move to Japan will make him ineligible for the All Blacks under NZ Rugby’s current selection policy.
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Born in Tonga, Finau came through the Waikato system before making his Chiefs debut in 2021. He went on to make 75 appearances for the Hamilton-based outfit and earned his first All Blacks cap in 2023.
“My time at the Chiefs will always be one that I will cherish,” Finau said. “It’s hard to say goodbye, but I’m really grateful for the people, the memories and the chance to represent this club.
“Wearing the jersey has been an honour and I hope I have represented all this jersey stands for. Chiefs will always be home.”
The 27-year-old made four Test appearances last season, with his most recent cap coming against Argentina in August.
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He is the latest high-profile New Zealand player to head to Japan after missing out on Rennie’s squad. Former All Blacks captain David Havili also recently signed a lucrative deal in Japan after being omitted.
The Chiefs will also lose Xavier Roe, Etene Nanai-Seturo, Lalakai Foketi, Liam Coombes-Fabling and Reuben O’Neill ahead of next season.
Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images
The post Another All Black heads abroad appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
A 12-Test All Black who has been overlooked by new coach Dave Rennie will be continuing his career in Japan.
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