TOKYO: New Zealand playmaker Richie Mo’unga stated on Tuesday that he has no plans to join the All Blacks in the future and can only envision playing in Japan “until I retire.”
Mo’unga signed a three-year contract with Toshiba Brave Lupus, which means he wo n’t be able to play for the All Blacks until the eligibility requirements are changed to allow players from other countries.
The 29-year-old, who was crucial to New Zealand’s victory in the World Cup final last month, claimed he was “fully involved” in his switch to Toshiba.
The fly half-told reporters,” I’m focused on the present, and I just want to give Toshiba everything I can.”
” Until I retire, I really can see myself playing here.”
Sam Cane, captain, and recently named World Rugby player of the year Ardie Savea are among the All Blacks who are relocating to Japan, including Mo’unga.
At Toshiba, based in Tokyo, Flanker Shannon Frizell has also joined Mo’unga.
Cane and Savea will not miss any games for New Zealand thanks to short-term contracts they have signed.
The All Blacks is over there, he claimed in Mo’unga’s case, “at this very point.”
He remarked,” I do n’t like using the word” sabbatical.”
” This is n’t a rest for me; it’s not something that happens every year.” I’m totally committed and involved.
Mo’unga was outstanding as New Zealand overcame a challenging build-up to defeat South Africa 12–11 in the World Cup final.
At Toshiba, which finished fifth in the Japan Rugby League One table last season, he declared that” the best footy of my career” can be played by him.
On December 9, the new campaign officially begins.
After representing Canterbury and the Crusaders in his hometown of Christchurch, Mo’unga expressed his desire for a change of scenery.
He claimed that it had been the same every year for a very long time.
” I’m using this as an opportunity to put my skills to the test in a new setting.”
