Carter: Denies Japan sabbatical
All Blacks star Dan Carter denied speculation he had signed a deal to play in Japan, but didn't rule out the prospect of a foray into the big-money league.
The 31-year-old, one of the highest-profile players in world rugby, is under contract with New Zealand until 2015 but has a clause allowing him to take a sabbatical built into the agreement.
Carter dismissed suggestions he had already signed with a Japanese club but conceded his management had tested potential interest in both Europe and Japan.
"(They) are just throwing it out there, and talking to a few clubs and players," he told reporters.
"I am nowhere near signing any deal or getting closer to deciding what I am going to do or whether I take my sabbatical or not. I am still not any closer to making a decision."
Japan coach Eddie Jones told Fairfax Media last month that Carter could command a salary of more than $1 million if he played a stint in Japan.
While Carter would not be eligible for the All Blacks while playing in Japan, he could return to the New Zealand side after a spell in the Top League, following in the footsteps of centre Ma'a Nonu.
Carter signed with French club Perpignan in 2008-09 but lasted only five matches before being sidelined by injury.
However, the injury risk is much lower in Japan, where the style of rugby is less physical that in European competitions.
All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw also has a sabbatical clause built into his New Zealand Rugby Union contract, which he is currently exercising to sit out most of the Super Rugby season and travel the world.
Comments
ArmchairGeneral says...
@5lock4ward: if he's got unfinished business it's regarding playing in a WC final, and winning. Afterwhich I would guess Toulon to replace JW and benchmark his twilight years vs Johnnies.
Posted 22:14 06th March 2013
Lucasrg says...
Come to Italy and check the cheeks
Posted 21:42 06th March 2013
rugby_rockstar says...
Go play for LA Galaxy Dan. LOL!
Posted 15:29 06th March 2013
5Lock4ward says...
He's the best in the world and has earned the right to make big money anywhere he chooses. That said I can't help but think he'd feel obligated to rectify his unfinished business at Perpignan. He had his choice of anywhere in the world the first time he had a sabbatical and that's where he chose. I can't see why this time should be much different.
Posted 13:07 06th March 2013