Magpies 'great' Ash Dixon signs contract to play in Japan

Highlanders and Hawke's Bay veteran Ash Dixon has signed a two-year contract to play rugby in Japan. Photo / File

Ash Dixon heads into his last season for the Magpies with a heartfelt message for fans - "you are not forgotten … thank you''.

The 32-year-old Magpies captain has signed a two-year deal to play rugby in Japan, kicking off in January 2022.

Dixon said it was a difficult decision to leave.

Magpies skipper Ash Dixon scores against Taranaki at McLean Park in 2020. Photo / Paul Taylor

"I've been incredibly grateful for the love and loyalty the Bay has shown me over the years and to play over 100 games for this prestigious province is something I will cherish forever.

''To all the staunch supporters who have supported myself and the Magpies through thick and thin, you are not forgotten, thank you.''

Dixon will play in the new Japanese League One competition for NEC Green Rockets.

The Magpies captain and Highlanders co-captain has been one of NZ provincial rugby's most consistent performers in recent seasons.

Dixon played his 100th game for the Magpies in last year's memorable Ranfurly Shield victory over Otago, and this Saturday's Shield defence, also against Otago, in Napier will be his 110th match.

Hawke's Bay Rugby CEO Jay Campbell said Dixon had arrived in the Bay as a highly promising hooker out of Christchurch Boys' High.

''[He] won the hearts and minds of fans throughout the country for the way he conducts himself on and off the field and always giving 100 per cent every time he represented Napier Tech, Magpies, Highlanders and the Māori All Blacks.

"Ash departs as one of the greats to represent our province."

Magpies head coach Mark Ozich said the Japanese experience would be a great one for ''a real warrior of New Zealand rugby".

"Whilst losing someone of Ash's ability, stature and leadership is a huge loss, I can understand the timing is right for him.''

New Zealand Rugby general manager professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum said Dixon occupied a unique place in NZ's rugby whānau.

"Ash's achievements speak to his character. He leaves as one of the most capped Māori All Blacks captains of all time, and a leader of huge influence for both the Highlanders and Hawke's Bay.

"He is a Super Rugby champion and a Ranfurly Shield holder, but more importantly he personifies the values of Te Ara Rangatira, The Rugby Way.''