Liam Napier: Why the All Blacks will miss Mark Tele’a

Mark Tele'a walks away from All Blacks by confirming Japan move

All Blacks wing Mark Tele'a said Tuesday that he will play in Japan next year, depriving New Zealand of a key player ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Springboks' menace Mark Tele'a ditches All Blacks ahead of 2027 Rugby World Cup

Selected with the All Blacks since 2022, wingman Mark Telea announced this Tuesday his new Japanese destination, preventing him from competing with his national selection, a tough blow for New Zealand.

Tele'a takes Japan contract

Mark Tele'a has scored 13 tries in 19 tests for the All Blacks. Photo: Getty Images Mark Tele'a will leave the Blues at the end of the Super Rugby Pacific season to play rugby in Japan next year, ruling him out of All Blacks selection in 2026, the New Zealand winger has confirmed.

All Black confirms move to Japan

The All Blacks and Blues winger will be heading overseas once the 2025 season ends.

Liam Napier: Why the All Blacks will miss Mark Tele’a

THREE KEY FACTS Mark Tele’a has proven as elusive off the field as he is on it. From Damian McKenzie to Asafo Aumua and Jordie Barrett, New Zealand Rugby’s...