All Blacks halfback and Hurricanes co-captain TJ Perenara has confirmed that he will miss next year’s Super Rugby season as he will be playing in the Japan Top League.
The Hurricanes announced that Perenara has signed a contract with NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes and will link up with the club later in the year.
Perenara said in a video posted on social media that this does not mean the end for him in New Zealand and he is looking forward to an exciting challenge over in Japan.
The 28-year-old has played 66 Tests for the All Blacks since making his debut in 2014.
NZ Rugby General Manager Professional Rugby & Performance Chris Lendrum says Perenara has been a long-standing and loyal player for New Zealand Rugby and the opportunity for him to experience playing in Japan is a positive thing for him and his family.
Lendrum says NZ Rugby would start contract discussions with Perenara’s management in due course, regarding his return to New Zealand.
Meanwhile, the All Blacks will be departing for Australia this Sunday where they will prepare for the third Bledisloe Test next Saturday and also the Rugby Championship competition.
[Source: TVNZ]
