Former All Blacks captain Sam Cane has revealed that he found the level of League One in Japan to be higher than he expected.
Injury-hit Cane, 32, who signed a three-year contract extension with Suntory Sungoliath in May to effectively end his All Blacks career, made just six appearances in his first season in Japan and scored two tries but has not played since 20 January due to a back injury.
The former Chiefs loose forward, who has played 95 Tests for his country including 27 as captain, said: “The level of rugby was higher than what I expected.”
Speaking in a new interview on his club’s YouTube channel, Cane reflected on his first season in the 2019 World Cup host nation and the Rotorua native said that he enjoyed his experience of Japan’s top-flight despite his disappointment at missing over half of the season.
“I’ve loved my first season here in Japan.
“I didn’t get to play as many games as I’d have liked to in the second half of the season which was quite frustrating not being able to play because of my back injury but I really enjoyed being around the team.”
Suntory clearly have full faith in one of their marquee players after extending his lucrative contract.
“I’ve signed a three-year extension here, with New Zealand I had a year left on my contract.
“Potentially I’ll be playing a little less rugby each year because it’s a longer off-season than I’m used to playing Super Rugby and then Test rugby.”
Cane believes it’s the right decision at the right time.
“It’s the best decision for myself and my family and I’m very grateful for the opportunity especially after this season didn’t turn out the way I had hoped.
“My goal is to make sure my body is in the best possible condition for next season.”
The 2015 World Cup winner, who is currently with the New Zealand squad as injury cover, is in the frame to feature for his country for possibly the final time during the 2024 Rugby Championship which starts in August.
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