The All Blacks career of exciting winger Nehe Milner-Skudder is all but over after he signed a three-year French club rugby deal.
Toulon has confirmed the 27-year-old’s contract will join them in June next year before their Top 14 campaign, ruling him out of World Cup contention.
A scorer of 12 tries in 13 Tests, he burst onto the international scene in 2015 with his elusive running style and was named World Rugby’s breakthrough player of the year.
His six tries at that year’s World Cup included one in the final win over Australia at Twickenham.
Shoulder injuries and the depth in New Zealand’s outside back stocks have forced Milner-Skudder to settle for sporadic appearances since, including two Tests this year, against Argentina and Japan.
Milner-Skudder joins his former Hurricanes wing partner Julian Savea at Toulon, along with former All Blacks Liam Messam and Malakai Fekitoa.
The announcement comes a day after accomplished New Zealand Test fullback Ben Smith announced he would play at French club Pau following next year’s World Cup.
It’s been widely reported that All Blacks captain Kieran Read will take up a French contract after the global tournament in Japan.
Oblonsky‘s Other Pun
Roar Guru
Assuming New Zealand win the 2019 RWC then Barrett would have won two world cups, one as a starter. What else can really be achieved as an All Black? He won't get another shot at a Lions series. Can see the attraction in prolonging one's career by stopping internationals and earning the big bucks abroad.
Oblonsky‘s Other Pun
Roar Guru
I don't actually agree. I've spent a lot of time in most of the countries that play rugby, and I would say that the French are generally slimmer than the Anglo countries. I think the issue is more around the culture of the top 14 and French rugby...
Lara
Guest
RWC winner 2015, played a big part in the win, hence Hansen was so loyal to him. Great to watch when fit n the footwork to beat players was often just so sweet to watch. Enjoy France !
CUW
Roar Rookie
he shud go for 2 - 3 years like Kaino went to japan beefore 2015 world cup only problem going to france is - he will come back looking like a pig. their food seems to fatten even an anorexic :P
Dontcallmeshirley
Guest
NMS is a shadow of his former self.
Oblonsky‘s Other Pun
Roar Guru
I wonder if Barrett may leave after the World Cup.
CUW
Roar Rookie
Eben Etzebeth also going to toulon after world cup