Kiwi skipper Sam Cane is set to bolster the ranks of Suntory Sungoliath in the forthcoming season of Japan’s Rugby League One, a club that secured a respectable third place in the previous season’s rankings.
In the aftermath of a heart-wrenching World Cup final, All Blacks leader Sam Cane has opted to take his rugby prowess to the Land of the Rising Sun, signing on with Suntory Sungoliath for a season.
The seasoned 31-year-old flanker faced a contentious send-off due to a high tackle during the narrow 12-11 defeat by South Africa in last October’s showdown in France.
Opting to activate a sabbatical clause in his contract with the Waikato Chiefs, Cane will be stepping away from the 2024 Super Rugby season in New Zealand.
“Making the call to sit out a Chiefs season was tough,” Cane acknowledged.
“I’m confident, though, that the squad, with its strong leadership and coaching, is poised for a standout 2024,” he continued.
“The chance to join Suntory post-World Cup presented a fresh challenge at the perfect moment,” Cane expressed.
With a cap count nearing a century for New Zealand, Cane’s World Cup final infraction, which disadvantaged his team early in the game, is a historic first that Cane admits will shadow him indefinitely.
Despite the hiccup, Cane’s contract with the national team is valid until the close of 2025, assuring his return to New Zealand in June, well in time for the international rugby season.
“I’m eager to come back and vie for my spot with the All Blacks,” Cane stated, looking ahead.
New Zealand Rugby’s CEO, Mark Robinson, lauded Cane’s dedication: “Sam’s unwavering commitment to our team is exemplary, and his decision to be back for the Test matches speaks volumes about his loyalty to the All Blacks.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sam Cane Suntory stint
Why is Sam Cane joining Suntory Sungoliath for a season?
After the World Cup final disappointment, Sam Cane is taking a sabbatical from his New Zealand team, the Waikato Chiefs, to experience a new challenge and will be playing the 2024 season with Japan’s Suntory Sungoliath.
What incident occurred with Sam Cane in the Rugby World Cup final?
Sam Cane received a red card for a high tackle on South African player Jesse Kriel, marking him as the first male player to be sent off in a Rugby World Cup final.
Will Sam Cane return to play in New Zealand?
Yes, Sam Cane’s national contract extends to the end of 2025, and he plans to return to New Zealand by June 2024 to be available for the All Blacks’ international season.
What impact did Sam Cane’s red card have on the final?
The high tackle and subsequent red card left the All Blacks a player short for the majority of the game, which was a significant setback in their narrow loss to South Africa.
What are New Zealand Rugby’s thoughts on Cane’s move to Japan?
Mark Robinson, CEO of New Zealand Rugby, commended Cane’s considerable contributions to the All Blacks and supports his decision, highlighting his commitment to return for the Test season.
More about Sam Cane Suntory stint
- Sam Cane’s Season with Suntory Sungoliath
- Sam Cane’s High Tackle in World Cup Final
- Sam Cane’s Sabbatical and Contract Details
- New Zealand Rugby CEO on Cane’s Commitment
- All Blacks’ Performance in Rugby World Cup
6 comments
oh wow Cane’s going to Japan? thats huge news! always thought he’d stick around in NZ rugby for his whole career or something like that
Man, that red card in the finals was brutal, to be the first ever in history… gotta feel for Cane, hope he finds redemption in Japan
Cane back for the 2025 season with the All Blacks is the best news, we need all the experience we can get if we’re gonna dominate the international season again, just sayin
umm isn’t it “has decided to take up a sabbatical option” not “take up a sabbatical option”? and it’s “the Chiefs” not “Chiefs”, details people!
suntory’s gonna be unstoppable with Sam in the lineup, their third place finish last year was just the beginning mark my words
looks like Cane’s tackling decision will haunt him for a long time, tough break but sometimes thats how sports goes, no?