Akira Ioane announces impending departure to Japan

Blues loose forward Akira Ioane has announced that he will leave the franchise after this season to play in Japan.

Ioane, who has played 22 Tests for the All Blacks, announced the news late last night on social media.

It means the 28-year-old could play his final match for the Blues when they take on the Brumbies in a Super Rugby Pacific semifinal on Friday night.

“It means a lot, obviously I’m a born and bred Auckland boy and I never really thought about going anywhere else. This is home, it will always be home,” Ioane said in the video.

“But, at the end of the day I’ve had to make a hard decision and I’ve decided to leave the Blues at the end of this year.

“A tough decision, wasn’t easy. I just thought it was time. I’ve been here 10 years, since I was a young kid coming out of school. It’s something I never truly thought was possible, I’m truly grateful for the opportunity I’ve had.

“It’s going to suck leaving, but on to what I think is bigger and better things for me and where I want to be, when I want to finish rugby.

“It’s not just me and my partner I have to worry about, it’s about making sure I’ve got the means to look after my family.

“That was part of the decision to head to Japan and make the most of what I think is the back end of my career.”

Ioane said it was important to provide for, and spend more time with, his son.

In a response from the Blues, the club said in the video: “In the next weeks we will farewell a legend of the club. The epitome of a Blues man.

“Hailing from up north and raised in central Auckland, Aki bleeds nothing but Blue. He will potentially play his last game in front of you in a thrilling semifinal against the Brumbies on Friday night. Join us in celebrating Akira’s 10 years of dedication to this region.”