Mitchell Brown to leave Taranaki and Chiefs ahead of 2023 season

Taranaki rugby captain Mitchell Brown will be leaving the province and the Super Rugby club Chiefs ahead of the 2023 season.

Brown has been with Taranaki since his professional rugby debut in 2012 and went on to captain them since 2019.

His Super Rugby debut for Chiefs came in 2016 and has racked up over 50 appearances for them.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity the Chiefs Rugby Club gave me back in 2016. As well for every opportunity that I got to pull the jersey on since, making great memories on and off the field," said Brown.

The 29-year-old will now head to Japan after signing a two-year deal with Yokohama Canon Eagles.

Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan thanked Brown for his contribution over the years.

"Ask anyone closely associated with the Chiefs in recent years, and they would stand Mitch alongside the legends of this club in terms of his contribution both on and off the field.

"He is the consummate team man - selfless, hardworking and humble."