Owen Franks joins ABs exodus
Rugby
All Blacks prop Owen Franks has joined the post-World Cup exodus with confirmation the Crusaders veteran will join English club Northampton at the end of the season.
Franks has been a mainstay of the All Blacks pack since 2009, playing an integral role in the national side’s back-to-back World Cup triumphs and will attempt to win a third in Japan later this year.
But after 106 tests for the All Blacks, 142 appearances for the Crusaders and 18 games for Canterbury, the 31-year-old has opted to seek a new challenge at the Saints, where he will join older brother Ben Franks.
‘‘The Crusaders, All Blacks and Canterbury Rugby have been a big part of my life, and my family’s lives, for more than a decade now, and I’m grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to live my dream in those jerseys,’’ Franks said. ‘‘New Zealand will always be home, but Northampton presents a great opportunity for me to test myself in a new rugby environment, and reconnect with family there.
‘‘While I know I’ll look back at the end of my time in New Zealand with an immense amount of pride, I still have a lot I want to achieve this year and some big goals to tick off before I leave.’’
Franks’ announcement comes in the same week that loose forward Liam Squire decided to walk away from the All Blacks following the World Cup to play in Japan. Outside backs Ben Smith and Nehe Milner-Skudder are France-bound while uncapped Crusaders loosie Jordan Taufua has signed with English club Leicester.
With several experienced All Blacks off-contract at the end of the season, there are bound to more that will head off shore.
While Franks is entering the latter stage of his career, his departure is still a blow to NZR.
He is still regarded one of the world’s best tighthead props and not only do they lose his ability on the field, the chance to mentor some of the younger front-rowers coming through will be sorely missed.
‘‘Owie is one of the most professional players I’ve had the privilege of coaching. The standards he sets for himself – and others – are exemplary,’’ All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said.
‘‘His unbelievable commitment to his preparation, on-field and gym training, diet and his game is there for all to see, and inspires others. He has done this from the first time he made the All Blacks in 2009, has continued that throughout his whole career, and his achievement in reaching 106 tests to date reflects that.
‘‘We wish Owen, wife Emma and their family all the very best when their new adventure starts next year.’’
NZR chief executive Steven Tew left little doubt as to how highly Franks is regarded, labelling him an ‘‘All Blacks legend’’.
‘‘He was the third youngest prop to ever pull on the All Blacks jersey, a testament to his drive and dedication from an early age, and is one of just nine All Blacks centurions,’’ Tew said.
‘‘It’s that consistency as well as his quiet, no-nonsense approach to the game that fans love about Owie and he will leave our shores as an All Blacks legend.’’
Franks made his provincial debut in 2007, made his Super Rugby debut in 2009, the same year he earned his first All Blacks cap against Italy in Christchurch.
He is the third most capped Crusader behind Wyatt Crockett (203) and Corey Flynn (151).