Pocock off to Japan?

Editor

According to reports in the Australian press, Wallabies flanker David Pocock is set to sign with the Japanese Panasonic Wild Knights.

The Canberra Times reports that the Brumbies openside has all but finalised the deal.

If the rumours are true Pocock would place himself back under the tutelage of former Wallabies boss Robbie Deans, who is coaching the Japanese club. Deans incidentally gave the flanker his first Wallabies cap.

Original murmurs pointed Pocock towards big-money deals in Europe and the United Kingdom where he could further his studies.

Pocock, who said he'll be taking a sabbatical away from rugby in 2017, would join the Wild Knights towards the end of 2017 to prepare himself for the 2018 season.