Adam Thomson: Off to Japan?

Related links

Teams

• Highlanders
• New Zealand

Also see

• Preview: Counties v Otago

Friday's ITM Cup Championship division final could be All Black flank Adam Thomson's last game in New Zealand.

Thomson will run out for Otago against Counties Manukau in Pukekohe but Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph has indicated that the 28-Test flank is unlikely to renew his contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union when it expires at the end of the year.

New Zealand's Super Rugby teams will announce their 28 protected players next week and Joseph has hinted that 30-year-old Thomson, who has fallen behind Liam Messam in the All Blacks pecking order and is believed to be considering a move to Japan, will be a notable absentee.

"Adam hasn't committed to New Zealand rugby so it's difficult to select him. That indicates he's heading overseas," Joseph told Fairfax Media.

"He's been a great servant and he will be sorely missed.

"If he's not playing test matches then he's not playing the level of rugby he's hoping to get.

"He's a quality player, there's no doubt about that.

"He's been a big part of our resurgence down here in the deep south at the Highlanders. His play is going to be really missed within the team, but as always happens in New Zealand it will give some else another opportunity.

"I respected his time and the options he was considering. I respect the decisions he's making because I've made those same decisions as a rugby player," added Joseph.

"Having been there and done that I stepped away. I knew if he stayed in New Zealand he would play for the Highlanders."