All Blacks captain Sam Cane has announced that he will step down as his country’s captain after signing a three-year contract extension with Suntory Sungoiliath.
Cane, 32, who has been a peripheral figure this season after being sidelined since January with a back injury, revealed that he will forgo the one remaining year (2025) on his New Zealand contract and has opted out of potentially re-joining the Chiefs at the end of the current season.
Suntory’s injury-hit star will be available for the All Blacks this summer ahead of the 2024-2025 League One season after signing a three-year contract extension with Suntory.
The 2015 World Cup winner, who has played 95 Tests for his country including 27 as captain, said: “A good opportunity came my way with Suntory Sungoliath willing to offer me a three-year contract.
“It was something we had to seriously consider as a family due to the stage I am at in my career,” added the Rotorua native who made his All Blacks debut in 2012.
“It will see me through to 2027 when I’ll have my 35th birthday.
“I’ve always thought that if I can play professional rugby for that length of time I’d be doing really well considering the position I play and the age that I started playing professionally.
“I had to weigh up everything and, in the end, with a young family it seemed like the best decision to help set up our future. It was a very hard one because I love the teams that I represent here in New Zealand.”
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson said: “After discussing this at length with Sam, I fully understand the reasons behind his decision and support him.
“The position he plays asks a lot of you mentally and physically – both of those things ramp up when you are captain. So to do what he’s done over such a long period is an incredible feat. I fully respect him taking this opportunity.”
New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson said: “Sam is a special member of the All Blacks family and we have huge admiration for what he has achieved in the game. He has made significant contribution to New Zealand rugby, and we are fully supportive of his decision to be with his family.”
Suntory Sungoliath are in play-off semi-final action this Sunday against Fuchu neighbours Toshiba Brave Lupus at Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium. Picture courtesy of Suntory Sungoliath
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