Rugby-All Blacks Smith, Barrett to head to Japan's Toyota after World Cup

FILE PHOTO: Rugby Union - International - Wales v New Zealand - Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, Britain - November 5, 2022 New Zealand's Aaron Smith celebrates scoring their fourth try Action Images via Reuters/John Sibley

(Reuters) - Veteran All Blacks Aaron Smith and Beauden Barrett will head to Japan after the World Cup in France to play with Toyota Verblitz, New Zealand Rugby (NZR) said on Tuesday.

Scrumhalf Smith has signed a long-term deal with Toyota, meaning 2023 is likely to be his last season in New Zealand, NZR said.