Rugby
1News

Ryan Crotty to leave All Blacks for Japanese club after World Cup

April 1, 2019
Ryan Crotty.
10 November 2018 - Rugby Union, Quilter Internationals - England v New Zealand - X - Photo: Charlotte Wilson / Offside / www.photosport.nz

Another All Black has announced his exit from New Zealand Rugby, with Ryan Crotty announcing he'll move to a Japanese club after this year's World Cup.

Crotty, 30, today announced he'll leave New Zealand for Japanese club side Kubota Spears, having played 142 Super Rugby matches for the Crusaders and 44 Tests for the All Blacks.

"I know I'll look back at the end of my career in New Zealand with really fond memories of the experiences I've had and what I've achieved alongside my good mates, but for now my focus is enjoying the season ahead and helping to lead this Crusaders side one last time in 2019," Crotty said in a statement.

"The All Blacks, Crusaders and Canterbury rugby have been such an important part of my life and I'm grateful for every opportunity I've had to represent my country, my province and my family over the years."

Crotty joins teammates Kieran Read, Liam Squire and Jackson Hemopo as those leaving New Zealand for Japan after the World Cup.

SHARE ME

More Stories