Brodie Retallick to play offshore in 2024

Outstanding Super Rugby and All Black centurion Brodie Retallick will head overseas next year with the 2023 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season the last for the Gallagher Chiefs.

The 31-year-old announced he is set for a second stint with the Kobelco Steelers in Japan in 2024.

With his future confirmed, the former World Rugby Player of the Year is putting everything into what will be his 13th and final season for the Gallagher Chiefs, with an eye on adding to his 100 All Blacks Test caps.

A journey that started in the North Canterbury town of Amberley has taken Retallick to heights he could never have imagined.

“I would like to thank the Gallagher Chiefs for giving me the opportunity to represent them and the Waikato region,” said Retallick.

“Coming from outside of the region to Hamilton in 2012 is a decision that has given my family and I endless memories and friendships both on and off the field that will last a lifetime.

“Although I’m moving on next year, I look forward to running onto my favourite stadium, FMG Stadium Waikato, and playing Chiefs rugby in front of our fans and supporters a few more times yet.”

Gallagher Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan said the club is indebted to the contribution Retallick has made.

“Brodie is a truly outstanding player on the field in every respect – and one of the leading locks to play the game,” said McMillan.

“More importantly off the field he has been a quiet leader and massive contributor to the development of our young new players coming through.

“He stands for all the values that we hold dear here at the Chiefs Rugby Club and he is always going to be welcome here. We wish him and his family our best.”

Retallick thanked New Zealand Rugby and his Hawkes Bay union.

“To play for the All Blacks is and has always been a privilege. The memories and friendships created by playing Test matches all around the world is indescribable and something I will treasure.

“This is still an exciting year ahead for me here in New Zealand and I would like to take the opportunity to thank the fans for their continued support.

“I also have to say a big thanks to everyone at Hawke’s Bay for giving me a shot in first-class rugby that led to everything I have experienced now.”

While Retallick’s roots are in North Canterbury, where there is a street named after him, he got his first shot at first-class rugby in Hawke’s Bay where he debuted for the Magpies in 2010.


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