Shannon Frizell confirms move to Japan after World Cup

All Black Shannon Frizell and his Super Rugby Pacific side, The Highlanders, have confirmed the 28-year-old's move to Japan's Rugby League One following the 2023 Rugby World cup. Frizell will join All Blacks teammate Richie Mo'unga in Tokyo for Toshiba Brave Lupus, coached by Todd Blackadder.

The blindside flanker has recently been through a number of injuries as well as a court case, keeping him sidelined for various periods throughout his time in the black jersey. When healthy, Frizell has put in some strong showings on the international stage but No 6 has been a position of experimentation for the All Blacks, Ian Foster has trialled Frizell, Akira Ioane, Scott Barrett and Ethan Blackadder and while Frizell had game-changing performances in 2022, Barrett looks to be the preferred option.

“I have heard great things about the Brave Lupus and its proud history through other New Zealanders playing for the club now and previously,” Frizell said of the move.

“I look forward to immersing my family into the club and meeting all the fans.”

Frizell's physicality will be an asset well utilized in the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific season and he will no doubt get a chance to add to his 25 All Black caps throughout the World Cup year. The Japan contract does allow the former Tonga representative football player to return to New Zealand prior to the 2027 World Cup, but, like Mo'unga, he will not be eligible for All Black selection until he's back in local colours.