Flavell's turning Japanese - again
Mon, 12 May 2008 13:57
All Black forward Troy Flavell confirmed on Monday that he will be heading back to Japan after the Blues' Super 14 campaign comes to an end.
Flavell, 31, said he expected to be able to announce details of his move on Tuesday.
The versatile forward had indicated previously he was likely to continue his career overseas after the present Super 14.
Flavell had a two-year stint in Japan before returning to New Zealand in early 2006.
His aim had been to make the Rugby World Cup for the first time but, despite being recalled to the All Blacks, he missed selection for last year's tournament.
Flavell, who has 22 Test caps, has skippered the Blues for the past two seasons.
Unless the Blues' slim hopes of making the semifinals are realised this weekend, the home match against the Hurricanes on Friday will be his swansong for the Auckland-based franchise.
To make the playoffs, the sixth-placed Blues need to beat the Hurricanes, preferably with a bonus point, and then hope other results go their way.
SAPA
