Richie Mo'unga ready to play in Japan until retirement

New Zealand playmaker Richie Mo'unga insisted that he would like to spend the rest of his career in Japan after joining Toshiba Brave Lupus.

The 29-year-old was recently part of the All Blacks' Rugby World Cup campaign and featured for Crusaders in over 100 Super Rugby games between 2016 and 2023.

However, he has now decided to move to Japan joining Toshiba Brave Lupus on a three-year deal which means he cannot play for the All Blacks during that time unless eligibility rules change to allow overseas-based players.

While the likes of Sam Cane and Ardie Savea, who joined Mo'unga to Japan are on a short-term deal which keeps them in contention for the international games for New Zealand, the former Crusaders fly-half is looking to end his career in Japan.

"I don't like using the term 'sabbatical'," he said.

"This isn't a rest for me, it's not a one-year thing. I'm fully involved and fully committed.

"I'm focused on the present, I just want to give all I can to Toshiba.

"I really can see myself playing here as long as I can until I retire."

The 2024 season of Japan League One kicks-off on 9th December.