Tu’inukuafe off to France

All Blacks and Blues prop Karl Tu’inukuafe is taking his game back to France. Hewill join Top 14 outfit Montpellier next season. The 29-yearold loosehead prop previously played in the French second division with Narbonne in the 2015-16 season. He returned to New Zealand, linking with the Chiefs as injury cover and igniting a remarkable international career that has seen him play 25 tests for the All Blacks. The move will take Tu’inukuafe out of the frame for the 2023 World Cup in France.

■ Former All Blacks hooker Liam Coltman has signed for leading French Top 14 team Lyon and will end his 12-year career with the Highlanders when they finish their Super Rugby season. Coltman has a two-year contract with Lyon, who are coached by former Highlander Kenny Lynn.