All Blacks star set for shock switch to French club signalling end to international career
All Blacks winger to join French club signalling end to international career
Perpignan have reportedly signed All Blacks winger Sevu Reece from the Crusaders on a three-year deal.
According to France 3 and L’Équipe, the 28-year-old is expected to arrive in time for the 2026-27 season.
Perpignan president François Rivière spoke at a press conference recently, saying: “ Between Christmas and New Year’s Day, we’ll be announcing a signing that I think will surprise many.
“ This proves that USAP remains a very attractive club. International signing, non-JIFF player… We already have some very, very good signings for next season. “
USAP currently sit bottom of the Top 14 with only one point after eleven rounds, which could mean that the record Super Rugby try scorer could play his rugby in D2 next season – unless he has a clause in his contract that stipulates otherwise.
An end to Reece’s All Blacks career
Reece is known for his impressive footwork and eye for the tryline, and it’s these talents that have earned him 37 appearances for the All Blacks, scoring 22 tries.
He earned his first All Black cap in July 2019 against Argentina and his last against Wales last November, scoring a try in a thrilling 52-26 win.
His arrival in France will, however, call to an end his international career, due to selection restrictions on choosing overseas players.
Even if Reece did return to New Zealand after his time in France, he would be in his early 30s, which well exceeds the life expectancy of an All Black outside back.
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