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Flavell confirms Japan move

Tuesday 13th May 2008

Time to move on: Troy Flavell

Blues' captain Troy Flavell has confirmed he will be leaving New Zealand to continue his rugby career in Japan.

Flavell will leave New Zealand after completing this year's Super 14 competition to play for the Mitsubishi Dynaboars in Tokyo on a two-year contract.

This will be the second time Flavell has played rugby in Japan as he last played there in 2005.

Flavell said that he will miss the good times he has spent playing rugby in New Zealand but he feels it is time he moved on.

"The last three years with the Blues, the All Blacks and Auckland have been huge. Captaining the Blues for the past two seasons has been an honour for me and I'll certainly miss the squad and my rugby life here," said Flavell.

"However, at 31 it's time to move on and as is the nature of this game, my departure provides an opportunity for somebody else."

Blues coach David Nucifora said Flavell is a player who will be missed and he has greatly contributed to New Zealand rugby.

"Troy is a very good rugby player, blessed with size and skill. He has led our players through some tough matches and is a popular man within our squad. I have enjoyed working with him," said Nucifora.

In 1997, Flavell made his provincial debut for North Harbour before being selected for the Chiefs in the Super 12 (7 caps) and later the Blues when the franchise catchment area changed. In 2000, Flavell made his All Black debut against Tonga - the first of 22 caps.

Blues CEO Andy Dalton said Flavell's service to provincial, Super 14 and international rugby is significant.

"Troy's playing career has spanned more than a decade at the top level, including 70 caps for the Blues. His leadership and experience earned him the captaincy last season and we appreciate all he has done for both the Blues and Auckland Rugby," he said.