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Long-serving All Blacks and Crusaders fullback Leon MacDonald has signed off his international and domestic rugby careers.
MacDonald, who has played 56 tests, announced today he would join Japanese club Kintetsu as soon as the Super 14 ended.
Kintetsu are based in Osaka and coached by former Crusaders coach, Peter Sloane.
Sloane had been a big factor in the decision, MacDonald said.
"It wasn't an easy decision to make, as I will obviously miss playing for the Crusaders and Canterbury. "I have had many good times here, including winning six titles with the Crusaders and the Ranfurly Shield twice for Canterbury." It will be his second stint in Japan, having played for Yamaha in 2004.
All Blacks coach Graham Henry said while it was sad to see MacDonald go, he remained "the ultimate professional".
"Leon has performed at the very highest level and has done fantastically well for the All Blacks, Crusaders and Canterbury. "He has had to overcome major obstacles with injury and has returned to play some exceptional rugby.
"Throughout his career, he has also been an outstanding role model and I think he has the knowledge and the skill to carry on in a coaching capacity when his playing career is over."
Although he has played most of his representative career at fullback, MacDonald stepped into the centre at the 2003 World Cup for the All Blacks.
At one point he landed 16 consecutive kicks at goal, all conversions, and only five players have more World Cup conversions than his total of 20.
MacDonald, 31, did not play for Canterbury in last season's Air NZ Cup due to concussion suffered playing for the All Blacks in the Tri Nations.
He played 118 times for the Crusaders (123 Super Rugby appearances), scoring 321 points, including 42 tries.
He made his debut for the Crusaders as a 19-year-old in 1997 and had a draft stint with the Chiefs in 1998, playing five matches, before returning south.
He also played 70 NPC games -- 37 for Canterbury and 33 for Marlborough, where he began his rugby career.
"Leon's work ethic and experience is second to none," Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said.
"He has had a big part to play in the Crusaders' success over the years due to his total commitment to the cause.
"We'll miss him but we wish him the best of luck in Japan. The door is always open for him here."
MacDonald was expected to make his last home appearance with the defending Super 14 champions against the Reds tomorrow night.