A New Zealand international has signed a three-year deal with French Top 14 club Castres, dealing another blow to the All Blacks.
Blues captain and flank Dalton Papali’i will depart the Auckland-based club, for whom he has made 98 appearances, at the end of 2026 Super Rugby Pacific.
The 27-year-old openside has won 37 caps for the All Blacks since making his debut against Japan in Tokyo in 2018. He featured in every match of the 2023 World Cup, including the final where the All Blacks fell just short against the Springboks.
His most recent international appearance came against France in Hamilton in July.
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“I know the club’s history,” said Papali’i in a statement from Castres. “I’m aware several All Blacks preceded me at Castres, such as Kees Meeuws, Carl Hoeft, Chris Masoe, more recently Jack Goodhue, and Gary Whetton, with whom I’ve had lengthy conversations.
“It’s a city passionate about its club and offers a family-oriented environment.”
He will line up alongside another New Zealander named Papali’i, Abraham, also a back rower and at Castres since 2023, although he represents Tonga.
Castres are presently ninth in the Top 14, four points off the top six and place in the playoffs.
– AFP
Photo: Joe Allison/Getty Images
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