New Zealand Skipper Sam Cane Announces Retirement from International Rugby.

Posted 3 months ago

New Zealand's beloved rugby captain Sam Cane has decided to step away from international competition by the close of 2024. His decision comes following the finalization of a three-year contract with Japan's Suntory Sungoliath, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career.

Cane's remarkable leadership and dedication to the sport have left an indelible mark on the rugby world, and fans worldwide will undoubtedly miss his presence on the international stage.

After a stint with the club during the Japanese season this summer, Cane will return and be available to play for the All Blacks for the remainder of the year.

The 32-year-old plans to head back to Japan after New Zealand Rugby agreed to release him from the final year of his contract, originally set to run until the end of 2025.

Cane shared, “Suntory Sungoliath offered me a three-year contract, and after considering everything, especially with a young family, it felt like the right move to secure our future."

Having debuted for the All Blacks in 2012, Cane has participated in 95 Tests, captaining 27 of them, and was part of the team's 2015 World Cup victory.

However, he made headlines by being the first male player in World Cup history to receive a red card in a final during New Zealand's loss to South Africa in the 2023 tournament.

The All Blacks haven't played since then, and Cane won't resume his captaincy when they return to action.