Rugby League One side Toyota Verblitz have announced the arrival of world-class New Zealand players Beauden Barrett and Aaron Smith from next season.
Boden Barrett, who handles standoffs and fullbacks, is 31 years old.
He has won 112 caps for New Zealand, nicknamed the All Blacks.
He is known for his skillful passing and kicking, as well as his speed, and has been named World Player of the Year twice.
Two years ago, I played for Japan's top league, Suntory.
Aaron Smith, 34, is one of the world's best scrum-halves with fast, accurate passes, sharp runs and precise kicks, and has 114 caps for New Zealand.
Both are global stars who helped New Zealand win the World Cup in England in 2015, and are scheduled to join the team after the World Cup in France in September and October.
“My family and I are very much looking forward to returning to Japan to play,” Barrett said.
Smith added, “I am very happy to have signed with Verblitz. I am looking forward to playing games and meeting the fans next season. I fell in love with Japan when I went there, and I am looking forward to experiencing Japanese culture with my family.”
Several other New Zealand national team players are also expected to join League One next season.
Kobelco Kobe Steelers will be joined by forward Ardie Savea, while Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo will be joined by backs Richie Mounga and forward Shannon Frizel.