Brodie Retallick, the former All Blacks lock and 2014 World Rugby Player of the Year, has made it clear that his international rugby career is behind him, and he has no plans to return to New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup 2027. After an illustrious career with 109 Test caps, the 34-year-old player feels his body has had enough of the grueling demands of international rugby.
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Retallick, currently playing for Kobe Kobelco Steelers in Japan’s Rugby World Cup 2027 League One, made headlines this week after scoring four tries in his team’s dominant 67-21 victory over Ricoh Black Rams. This impressive feat led to speculation about the possibility of him rejoining the All Blacks for the upcoming World Cup. However, Retallick was quick to shut down any such ideas, stating that his time in the black jersey has come to an end.
In addition, Speaking on Sport Nation’s Millsy and Guy show, Retallick explained his decision. I think my time is done, to be honest he said, reflecting on his career. At times, you think, could you still do it? But at the end of the day, the body is getting a bit older. And after all this time away from home, I think those days are done. I’ll see my time out in Japan. I can confirm that for you today.
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Retallick’s Move to Japan: Why He’s Not Eyeing the 2027 World Cup
Despite his strong performance on the field, Retallick remains firm in his decision to continue his career in Japan, where he signed a three-year deal with the Kobe Kobelco Steelers in 2023. His contract, which is set to run until 2026, is similar to the one signed by his former All Black teammate, Richie Mo’unga, who also made the move to Japan.
This has fueled speculation that Retallick could return to New Zealand for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. However, Retallick has stated that such a reunion with the All Blacks is not on the cards. In the interview, Retallick humorously downplayed his four-try performance, calling it a bit silly, a bit out of hand. Besides emphasising that he is thoroughly enjoying his time in Japan.
I’ve definitely been enjoying it, he said. We’re at a good club in a good spot, and we have a great squad this year in particular. We’ve got big aspirations, and the rugby’s going well. Not much to complain about, that’s for sure.
Kobe’s 2026 season is shaping up to be one of their most competitive yet, with new talent bolstering the squad. The addition of Ardie Savea, the 2022 New Zealand Rugby World Cup Player of the Year, has brought star power to the club, while Anton Lienert-Brown’s arrival has added further strength in the backline.
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Retallick’s Japan Experience: Thriving in a New Rugby World Cup Final Environment
Lienert-Brown and Savea are both on one-year deals, made possible by sabbatical clauses in their New Zealand Rugby World Cup Final contracts. The club is poised for success, sitting third on the table after five rounds of the season, with four wins and just one loss suffered at the hands of table-topping Kubota Spears in the opening week.
Retallick’s move to Japan has sparked comparisons with his long stint in the Super Rugby World Cup Final, where he spent a decade playing for the Chiefs. He noted two significant differences between the two competitions. Probably the defence side of things, he observed. The game’s as fast, if not faster, as Super Rugby level. There are some big forward packs with some teams, but other teams probably don’t have the size.
Besides, that’s where some of the contact is probably not at the same intensity as your New Zealand competition. Even though the style of play in Japan can be less intense in terms of physical contact, Retallick feels the level of competition is still high.
Besides, the rugby is just as fast-paced as what he experienced in Super Rugby. The defensive structures may vary, but overall, Retallick finds himself thriving in this new environment. Looking back on his career, Retallick admits that there were moments when he considered making a return to New Zealand.
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Retallick Chooses Japan Over Rugby World Cup Semi-Final Glory: A New Phase in His Career
Especially when he sees his former teammates continuing to perform at the highest level. However, the thought of another Rugby World Cup semi-final campaign is no longer enticing. He’s ready to embrace the final years of his rugby career in Japan, enjoying a new chapter while leaving behind his illustrious tenure with the All Blacks.
Retallick’s journey, from his rise to prominence with the Chiefs to becoming one of the most respected locks in world rugby. Has been nothing short of remarkable. His decision to move to Japan in 2023 was a bold one but it has allowed him to continue playing at a high level while avoiding the intense demands of international rugby.
As he prepares for the 2026 season with the Kobe Kobelco Steelers, Retallick is content with his decision and looks forward to making the most of his remaining years on the field. Retallick’s story serves as a reminder that rugby careers evolve.
And the toughest decisions often come when it’s time to leave the past behind and embrace new challenges. While he may no longer wear the All Blacks jersey, his legacy in world rugby is secure. Now, he’s focused on continuing to make an impact in Japan and helping the Kobe Steelers reach new heights in the Rugby World Cup semi-final.
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