Rugby: So'oialo leaving for Japan

Rodney So'oialo. Photo / Getty Images

Wellington, Hurricanes and All Blacks stalwart Rodney So'oialo has today announced he is leaving New Zealand to take up an exciting rugby opportunity in Japan.

So'oialo will leave New Zealand at the end of this year's Super 15 Season to take up a two-year playing contract with Japanese club Honda Heat.

New Zealand Rugby Union and Hurricanes and Wellington Rugby officials paid tribute to So'oialo's loyalty and contribution to New Zealand rugby at a function at NZRU headquarters today.

31-year-old So'oialo said he was looking forward to the rugby and leadership challenges in Japan along with the different cultural experience it will offer.

"I want to thank the NZRU, Hurricanes and Wellington for their continuous support for me over such a long time. I really appreciate everything done for me. It has been a privilege and an honour for me to play for these teams and for my country."

Renowned for his hard-nosed defence and surging attacks, So'oialo made his provincial debut for Wellington in 2000, his Super 15 debut in 2001 and his All Blacks debut the following year against Wales in Cardiff.

He has played 62 Test matches as an All Black including five as captain and he captained the All Blacks in three different positions (6, 7 and 8). He also has 64 provincial caps and 101 Super Rugby caps.

He won a Commonwealth Games gold medal with the New Zealand Sevens team in 2002.

- HERALD ONLINE