Crusaders captain David Havili has confirmed he will join a Japanese rugby club on a two-year contract starting next year, but remains committed to the All Blacks for their upcoming tour of South Africa, provided he is selected. The 31-year-old midfielder, who was left out of Dave Rennie’s initial squad for the Nations Championship announced Monday, revealed the move was planned well before discussions with the All Blacks coach.

Havili stated that the timing of the announcement was coincidental and that the decision had been on his mind for some time, especially after missing All Blacks selection last year. He said the news was intended to be shared soon after the Super Rugby season but was delayed. Despite signing with a Japanese side, Havili expressed his continued willingness to represent New Zealand, emphasizing that if called upon for the national team, he would accept.

Ahead of the South African tour, Rennie is expected to expand the squad by adding around 10 players, and experienced figures like Havili could play a crucial leadership role. The squad is likely to include seasoned professionals such as Hurricanes co-captain Du’Plessis Kirifi and Crusaders teammates Christian Lio-Willie and Ethan Blackadder to lead the team in the provincial fixtures. Havili’s role could mirror that of mid-week captains from past tours, such as John Mitchell in 1993 and Todd Blackadder in 1996, providing guidance and leadership while test regulars rest.

Havili’s departure from New Zealand Rugby earlier than expected was made possible by a break clause in his contract with the Crusaders, which he had extended through 2027 last year. Opting to exercise this clause was a significant decision, especially with the 2027 World Cup on the horizon and stiff competition in midfield from Jordie Barrett, Quinn Tupaea, and Billy Proctor. Havili acknowledged the evolving squad dynamics but remains focused on finishing his final NPC season with the Tasman Mako and enjoying some downtime.

Since joining the Crusaders in 2015, Havili has played 55 games, scoring 222 points, and collecting eight Super Rugby titles. He came into the team as a young player alongside legends such as Dan Carter, Sam Whitelock, Richie McCaw, and Kieran Read and has since taken on a mentoring role for emerging talents like rookies Cooper Roberts and Cooper Grant. His tenure included being part of the team that ended an eight-year title drought in 2017 and culminating in captaincy of the 2025 championship-winning side, a highlight he regards as a career pinnacle.

Havili reflected positively on his rugby journey, leaving New Zealand rugby “content” with his achievements at both the Crusaders and All Blacks levels. While his future lies in Japan, his commitment to New Zealand rugby endures, at least for the immediate challenges ahead.