The Brumbies’ Christian Lealiifano is heading to Japan.
Lealiifano has signed a deal with Japanese Top League club Toyota Shokki to join them after the 2018 Super Rugby season finishes.
He will remain with the side until the end of their season.
“I am really looking forward to the unique experience of playing in Japan,” Lealiifano commented.
“This is something that I have wanted to do for some time and had to postpone due to my illness. This is a fantastic opportunity to play in a different environment and a different culture and it’s something that appeals to me.
“I am excited about the prospect of playing for Toyota Shokki. Before then, however, my focus will be on finishing the season strongly at the Brumbies and helping to continue our recent good form.”
Brumbies CEO Michael Thomson said the club had given Lealiifano the thumbs up.
“The Brumbies are supportive of Christian playing in Japan,” said Thomson.
“Christian’s form has continued to improve as the season has progressed culminating in the Brumbies two strong performances in our most recent games.
“We appreciate that he is keen to experience another culture and the Japanese Top League timing affords him that opportunity this year. We wish him luck with his endeavours.”
Cuw
Guest
where is HARRY ??? . As predicted some time back , NIZAAM CARR will join WASPS on a permanent basis prior to the 2018/19 campaign. in addition to CARR, Stormers have confirmed that Raymond Rhule and Dewaldt Duvenage have both been released early from their deals to pursue opportunities abroad.
Paulo
Roar Rookie
Yea, maybe he thinks he needs to get as much rugby in as soon as he can incase something’s comes back. The experience he has been through probably reinforces the idea of not putting things off because you think you will have time later. More power to him, I truely hope he does well.
ScottD
Guest
I wish him the best but am concerned for him.
MitchO
Guest
Maybe he figures that playing is more fun than training and it is probably rust that is his bigger problem rather than time in the gym. He's likely also thinking that life can be pretty short.
Paul D
Roar Rookie
I guess he's got his own people around him and hope he's getting the best advice. To me it seems like a lot to put his body through to now do back to back seasons after last year. He still seems well short of his best. But perhaps the best thing to do is keep playing.