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Is this the end for Otago rugby’s favourite beard?
Veteran hooker Liam Coltman has been linked with a move to powerhouse French club Lyon.
It is entirely predictable — Coltman is 32, he has given yeoman service to Otago and the Highlanders, this could be an ideal time for him to see what he is worth in the cashed-up European market, and French media are endlessly speculating which Kiwi might be next to chase the euro — but it will still be a blow to southern fans if it comes true.
The smiling rake has been ever-present in blue and gold since making his debut for Otago in 2010 and the Highlanders two years later.
He was coming off contract with the Highlanders after this season and, like all players at his stage of his career, was ‘‘looking at his options,’’ Highlanders chief executive Roger Clark said yesterday.
Staying with the Highlanders, for whom Coltman has played 134 games, was one of those options.
Both the other hookers in this year’s squad, Andrew Makalio and Rhys Marshall, are contracted for next year.
Lyon, ironically coached by former Highlander Kenny Lynn, is reportedly in the market for a hooker as both its incumbents are leaving next season.
The RMC Sport website claimed Coltman had given an ‘‘informal agreement’’ to Lyon.
Coltman, who played eight tests for the All Blacks from 2016 to 2019, has 82 caps for Otago.
He is the only hooker contracted to Otago for the NPC at this stage, though Super Rugby players often have get-out clauses that allow them to head overseas early.
Ricky Jackson, who has been whistled into the Crusaders, has been Coltman’s deputy in recent years but does not have an Otago contract for 2022 yet.
Henry Bell was the third hooker in the squad last year.
Otago Rugby Football Union chief executive Richard Kinley said he had no reason, at this stage, to believe Coltman would not be playing for Otago this year.