Rugby: Ioasa to pursue career in Japan

Former New Zealand sevens rugby captain Tafai Ioasa is to pursue his career in Japan.

The Hawke's Bay forward has signed to play for the Fukuoka Sanix Blues and will leave New Zealand in June at the end of the International Rugby Board's sevens series.

Injury meant that Ioasa, 27, missed New Zealand's tournament win in Hong Kong last weekend and he will also be absent when they look to continue their winning streak at Adelaide this weekend.

He has contested 47 sevens tournaments since 2001 and captained New Zealand when they won the gold medal at the 2006 Commonwealth Games.

Ioasa today said he thought the time was right for him and his wife Emily to make the move to Japan with their young family.

"Although we will miss New Zealand we are looking forward to settling in Japan and experiencing a different culture and lifestyle."

New Zealand sevens coach Gordon Tietjens said he was saddened to lose Ioasa.

"He is one of the best sevens players in the world and a very influential player. As a captain he has been outstanding."

- NZPA