New Zealand winger Mark Tele’a has announced his decision to play in Japan starting next year, a move that will leave a significant gap in the All Blacks squad as they prepare for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Tele’a, who has seen exceptional success on the field with 13 tries in 19 Tests and earning the title of World Rugby’s breakthrough player of the year in 2023, confirmed his intention via social media but did not disclose the specific club or contract details.
Speculation is rife that the 28-year-old may be heading to Toyota Verblitz, a team managed by former All Blacks coaches Steve Hansen and Ian Foster. In his statement on Instagram, Tele’a expressed gratitude towards his teammates, coaches, and fans, reflecting on the “amazing ride” of his career so far and hinting at an exciting new chapter ahead.
This shift follows a trend where several prominent New Zealand players, like scrum-half TJ Perenara, have opted for lucrative contracts in Japan, primarily driven by the financial security these offers provide. Perenara himself is set to end his international career with a three-year contract at Black Rams Tokyo for similar reasons.
The All Blacks have implemented a policy limiting national selection for players not contracted domestically, aimed at preventing player exodus and preserving the strength of local competitions. With Tele’a’s departure, head coach Scott Robertson faces challenges in balancing team dynamics and building a competitive squad for future international fixtures, including the upcoming home Tests against France in July.
Tele’a debuted for the All Blacks in 2022 and started in the 2023 World Cup final against South Africa. He played a critical role in helping the Blues clinch the 2024 Super Rugby title, highlighting his impact at both club and national levels.
As New Zealand Rugby navigates the challenges posed by player movements and competition from overseas leagues, it will be crucial to adapt its strategies to retain talent while also nurturing the next generation of rugby stars from New Zealand.
The optimistic view is that Tele’a’s move to Japan could open more opportunities for younger players to step into the spotlight within the All Blacks setup as they adjust to roster changes ahead of future tournaments.
Leave a comment