Sam Cane Determined to Secure All Blacks Swansong Despite Impending Retirement
Despite announcing his retirement from international rugby following the 2024 season, seasoned flanker Sam Cane remains steadfastly committed to earning one final opportunity to don the famous All Blacks jersey. The 32-year-old, who currently sits on 95 Test caps, is driven by the desire to reach the coveted century milestone before calling time on his distinguished career.
Cane, who recently signed a three-year deal with Japanese club Suntory Sungoliath, acknowledged that securing a spot in New Zealand’s lineup may prove challenging with a new captain set to be named for the upcoming July series. However, the openside is undeterred, determined to prove his worth and contribute to the All Blacks in whatever capacity he can during the final year of his contract.
“I would be lying if I said it wasn’t [part of the motivation],” Cane admitted when discussing his aspirations to reach 100 caps. “Also, I’m contracted with NZ Rugby this year, they’ve been outstanding throughout this whole process, and seeing out this year’s contract sits well with me. I’m pretty driven to have one last crack at the All Blacks, whatever capacity that may be.”
Despite his recent injury struggles, Cane is confident in his physical condition, dispelling any concerns that he is a “broken man” clinging to his playing career. The seasoned flanker emphasized that his body is in good shape, and the burning desire to perform at the highest level remains his primary motivator.
“Though I’ve had my fair share of injuries, I’m not a broken man who feels like I’m hanging on,” he asserted. “My body is actually in good shape, and the key is mentally I’m still driven by the challenge of wanting to play rugby and perform well. As long as that fire is still there, it’s going to take quite a lot from my body for me to give in.”
Cane’s remarkable career has seen him succeed the legendary Richie McCaw as the All Blacks’ first-choice openside flanker following the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Despite occasional criticism, the 32-year-old has been an integral part of New Zealand’s success, and he remains determined to contribute further before drawing the curtain on his international journey.
“To be on 95, having been to three World Cups and had some memories… I feel hugely lucky and blessed to have done all those things,” Cane reflected. With the All Blacks selectors set to usher in a new era, the veteran flanker is intent on making the most of his final opportunities to represent his country, leaving a lasting legacy on the bbc rugby union, rugby union news, rugby union gameplay, and the sport as a whole.
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