Mark Tele'a's Move to Japan in 2026: A Game-Changer for the All Blacks
Source: news.source.channelnewsasia
All Blacks winger Mark Tele'a has announced his departure from the Auckland Blues at the end of the season to play rugby in Japan starting in 2026. This move will render him ineligible for All Blacks selection, prompting concerns about the impact of lucrative foreign contracts on New Zealand rugby. Tele'a, celebrated for his performance and awarded the 2023 World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year, joins other New Zealand players in seeking opportunities abroad.
Key Points
Mark Tele'a will move to Japan to play rugby in 2026, leaving the Auckland Blues.
His move will make him ineligible for All Blacks selection, posing a selection dilemma for coach Scott Robertson.
Tele'a's departure adds to the trend of New Zealand players seeking high-paying contracts abroad.
The move has raised concerns among rugby pundits about the allure of the All Blacks jersey versus foreign financial incentives.
Tele'a has been a key player for the All Blacks, scoring 13 tries in 19 tests and starting in the 2023 World Cup final.
He was named World Rugby's Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2023.
