All Blacks Captain and Chiefs Co-Captain, Sam Cane, to Miss Super Rugby Pacific 2024 Due to Japanese Sabbatical
In a stunning move, All Blacks skipper and co-captain of the Chiefs, Sam Cane, has made the decision to sit out next year’s Super Rugby Pacific competition, opting instead to take a short-term deal in Japan.
Sources close to the situation have informed us that the 31-year-old rugby star will utilize his 2024 sabbatical, as specified in his New Zealand Rugby contract, to join the ranks of Tokyo Sungoliath.
However, there’s a potential hurdle for Cane as he may have to begin his tenure with the Japanese team on the sidelines, contingent upon the outcome of a pending judiciary hearing related to his red card from the World Cup final. We understand that the hearing is scheduled for early next week.
The Japan Rugby League One season is set to kick off next month and extend through May. Coincidentally, this aligns perfectly with the timing of fellow loose forward Ardie Savea’s deal with the Kobelco Kobe Steelers.
Cane is expected to return just in time for the new All Blacks’ season, as Scott Robertson’s reign commences in July with a thrilling two-test series against England and another against Fiji.
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The 30 best rugby players in the world have been ranked
#30. Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
A rising Irish hooker known for his powerful scrummaging and dynamic play in open field. Sheehan’s agility and tackling prowess make him a vital asset in set pieces and loose play alike, hinting at a promising future in international rugby
#29. Owen Farrell (England)
England’s steadfast captain and fly-half, Farrell’s tactical brilliance and accurate kicking guide his team’s gameplay. Renowned for his leadership, his defensive grit and ability to control the game’s pace make him a linchpin in England’s rugby strategy.
Wales Online wrote: “The 31-year-old has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons recently but is a player you’d rather play with than against. Farrell is a natural leader of men, and will play a crucial role if England are to drag themselves out of the rut they find themselves in.”
#28. Thibaud Flament (France)
A versatile lock for France, Flament’s towering presence in the lineout and ferocious work rate define his style. With his strong carrying and breakdown skills, he is a force to be reckoned with in both set-piece dominance and open-field encounters.
#27. Shannon Frizell (New Zealand)
Frizzell’s imposing physique and aggressive ball-carrying mark him as a formidable All Black flanker. His offloading ability, coupled with his defensive prowess, cements his position as a player who consistently makes his presence felt on the field.
#26. Steven Kitshoff (South Africa)
An anchor of the Springboks’ scrum, Kitshoff’s experience and technical expertise are unmatched. His exceptional work rate and relentless tackling contribute to his reputation as a reliable front-row stalwart, key to South Africa’s forward dominance.