All Blacks and Blues loose forward Jerome Kaino has confirmed he is leaving New Zealand rugby to take up a contract with Japanese club Toyota.

Kaino who has played 48 tests for the All Blacks and was a standout performer during their Rugby World Cup triumph last year has signed with the club for two seasons.

All Blacks Coach Steve Hansen said while it was obviously disappointing that Kaino was leaving New Zealand rugby, he respected and accepted his decision.

Kaino played for every national side since first pulling on the black jersey for New Zealand Schools in 2001.

Meanwhile in the Super Rugby matches tonight, the Blues will take on the Hurricanes at 6.35pm and at 8.40pm the Rebels will play Western Force.


Story by: Dhanjay Deo