Hurricanes loose forward Devan Flanders will leave the club at the end of the Super Rugby Pacific season to take up a move to Japan, bringing an end to his current path toward All Blacks selection under New Zealand Rugby’s overseas-based player policy.
The 26-year-old has been one of the Hurricanes’ standout performers in 2026 and his departure is another notable loss for New Zealand rugby.
Devan Flanders Japan Move Confirmed
Flanders has started regularly for the Hurricanes this season and played a major role in the side’s push near the top of the Super Rugby Pacific standings.
The Hurricanes have confirmed that Flanders will head overseas at the end of the campaign, although details of his next Japanese club have not been publicly announced.
All Blacks Eligibility Blow For Flanders
New Zealand Rugby’s current policy means players based overseas are generally not eligible for All Blacks selection unless they remain contracted under special arrangements. That means Flanders’ move is expected to end his immediate hopes of breaking into the senior national side.
Hurricanes Lose Another Key Player
Flanders leaves as an experienced performer for both the Hurricanes and Hawke’s Bay, and his departure adds to the growing list of players heading offshore at the end of the season.
