Ex-All Black Kelleher quits Stade Francais

Fri, Apr 13, 2012, 2:00 AM
AAP
by AAP

Former All Blacks halfback Byron Kelleher confirmed on Thursday that he has quit French Top 14 rugby side Stade Francais.

The 35-year-old, who earned 57 caps playing for the All Blacks between 1999 and 2007, arrived in Paris last year after four seasons with league rivals Toulouse, with his contract due to expire in 2013.

"I've been liberated from my contract with the Stade Francais," Kelleher, who played 12 top flight games for Stade, said on his website.

"I will now focus on my next season. I want to send all my best wishes to the guys. I sincerely hope they will have a great end of season, and that they will have other excellent ones. This is a great group that deserves to earn titles."

He did not reveal plans for his future, but added: "I am a player, and I will still be a player for sure next season. Then, I will work on many projects."

Mid-table Stade Francais travel to title-chasing Clermont on Saturday.

Share
Brumbies dig deep late for Highlanders victory
RECAP: Brumbies strike late for crucial Highlanders win
This afternoon, the Penina sides from Tonga and Samoa will go head-to-head in a historic ‘Battle of the Pacific’ clash at Teufaiva Stadium in Tonga,
Samoa claims inaugural ‘Battle of the Pacific’ clash in Tonga
Australia U20s shuffle side for clash against Eddie Jones’ Japan U23s