Dane Coles will continue his rugby career in Japan. Photo: Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz
Dane Coles is not done just yet.
The All Blacks hooker has opted to continue his playing career in Japan after initially announcing his plan to retire following the Rugby World Cup.
Coles has taken up a lucrative offer with Japan Rugby League One champions the Kubota Spears, replacing the injured Springbok Malcolm Marx.
The 36-year-old Coles played his last test off the bench in the All Blacks epic World Cup quarter-final victory over Ireland.
He was left out of the side for the semi-final and final against South Africa.
The 90-test veteran's move was confirmed by the club on X (formerly Twitter).
"We would like to inform you that it has been decided that Dane Coles will join the Kubota Spears Funabashi/Tokyo Bay as an additional player for the 2023-24 season. Dane Coles is scheduled to join the team on December 1st."
Coles made his first class debut for Wellington in 2007, played 141 times for the Hurricanes and also represented the Maori All Blacks.