Despite his status as the Chiefs’ first choice at fullback, Stevenson has made only one test appearance for the All Blacks. Photo / Photosport
Shaun Stevenson and New Zealand Rugby have reached an agreement over the one-test All Black’s immediate and longer-term future, the national organisation has confirmed.
Last month, the 28-year-old sought an immediate release from his NZ Rugby and Chiefs contract in order to take up a deal with Japanese outfit Kubota Spears. Kubota had Stevenson at the top of their wishlist after injury ended the Top League season of Wales outside back Liam Williams.
However, NZ Rugby was hesitant to grant Stevenson’s request so close to the start of the Super Rugby season, due to the precedent it would set for other players wanting to move abroad. Stevenson is contracted until the end of the 2025 season.
Instead, he has been granted a short-term sabbatical from his NZR deal and will head to Japan to start 2025. The Herald also understands Stevenson will relocate permanently in 2026, once his current contract expires.
“We’ve been discussing Shaun’s future for a little while and have reached a decision that balances Shaun’s individual circumstances with his commitments to the Gallagher Chiefs and Super Rugby,” said NZR’s general manager of professional rugby and performance, Chris Lendrum.
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The post Super Rugby: New Zealand Rugby, Shaun Stevenson reach compromise over Japanese deal first appeared on Rugby 247.
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Author : rugby-247
Publish date : 2025-01-14 01:42:17
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