112-cap fly-half Beauden Barrett and 114-cap scrum-half Aaron Smith, who were both world champions with New Zealand in 2015, will be coached in Japan by the former Allies manager Blacks, Steve Hansen (2011-19).
While waiting to join their new club, they will continue to evolve under the colors of the Blues (Barrett) and the Highlanders (Smith), and will be available for the national selection until the end of the World Cup in France, underlines the NZR in a statement.
Moreover, if the text does not specify the duration of their contracts with the Japanese club, it is indicated that Barrett, 31, could return to his country at the end of it.
"I want to take my time and make sure that I make the right decision and, once I see it more clearly, I will be able to take stock of my future after 2024", specified the player, quoted in the press release.
Barrett has already evolved in Japan in 2021 within the Suntory Sungoliath team.
Regarding Aaron Smith, 34, the New Zealand Federation, on the other hand, evokes a "long-term" contract, suggesting that he could end his career in Japan.
"I want to thank the Highlanders for believing in me. I've been through everything with this team and they've always been there for me," he said.
© 2023 AFP