Bernard Foley to join Kubota Spears

Thu, Sep 12, 2019, 7:15 AM
AAP
by AAP
Bernard Foley is joining Japanese side Kubota after the World Cup. Photo: Getty Images
Bernard Foley is joining Japanese side Kubota after the World Cup. Photo: Getty Images

Bernard Foley's post-World Cup destination has been confirmed with Japanese Top League side Kubota confirming his signing on Thursday.

Foley announced in July that he would be heading overseas but his final destination remained somewhat of a mystery.

The Spears announced his acquisition on Thursday afternoon, naming Foley and Australian schoolboy Opeti Helu as acquisitions for next season.

Foley has played 70 Tests for the Wallabies and would still potentially be available for Test duty despite moving overseas, but it seems unclear whether he will continue playing Tests in 2020.

It wouldn't be the flyhalf's first stint in Japan - Foley played for the Ricoh Black Rams for one season after the 2015 Rugby World Cup. 

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Wallabies captain David Pocock speak after Australia's win over Samoa. Photo: Getty Images"I am delighted to join Kubota Spears," he said on the Spears website.

"Kubota Spears is a team that has been doing well recently and is passionate about becoming stronger. 

"I look forward to being part of such a team and would like to contribute to the team in this year's top league season. 

"I am also grateful for the opportunity to play again in Japan. 

"Rugby is more prevalent in Japan, and the top league level is the highest ever.

"I'm really looking forward to the experience of playing in such an environment."

Foley joins fellow Test half Will Genia in heading to Japan after the World Cup, while locks Adam Coleman and Rory Arnold and prop Sekope Kepu are also set to head overseas after the tournament.

Share
Super Rugby Pacific Round Six Preview
Force 'heart and soul' Pomare set to reach rare Super W milestone
Michael Hooper is excited about the challenge of playing Sevens in Hong Kong. Photo: Nick Holland/RA Media
'Rookie' ex-Wallabies skipper Hooper ready to step up Sevens unknown
'Brumbies DNA': Wallabies selections on the line for Reds clash - Larkham