Rugby-All Blacks winger Tele'a heading to Japan in 2026

FILE PHOTO: Rugby Union - Autumn International - England v New Zealand - Allianz Stadium Twickenham, London, Britain - November 2, 2024 New Zealand's Mark Tele'a scores their first try Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs/File Photo

MELBOURNE (Reuters) -Mark Tele'a will leave the Auckland Blues at the end of the season and play rugby in Japan next year, ruling him out of All Blacks selection in 2026, the New Zealand winger said on Tuesday.

Tele'a was among Scott Robertson's first-choice wingers in his first season in charge but his departure leaves the All Blacks coach with a dilemma as to whether to pick him this season or move on.