Rugby: Cowan happy to go offshore

Jimmy Cowan of the Highlanders looks to pass. Photo / Getty Images.

Jimmy Cowan's revealed he never had to think twice about going offshore.

The All Blacks and Highlanders halfback will leave New Zealand rugby at the end of the ITM Cup, having signed a two-year deal with UK club Gloucester.

He says it was an easy decision.

"I think everyone come to a stage in their career when they know the time's right for them to leave, and I feel that within myself. I'm a great believer in, you know, one chapter closes and another one opens."

Cowan's hopeful of joining an exclusive club before he leaves New Zealand rugby.

He can join Tana Umaga in becoming just the second player to play 50 All Blacks tests and 100 games for his Super Rugby franchise and province.

Cowan's played 93 games for Southland and says the tonne is something he wants to bring up.

"That's the aim, I'm not required over there 'til October so hopefully I can get a few games under my belt and we'll see what eventuates."

Cowan says signing with Gloucester is the perfect move for him.

"I've always wanted to go there and experience Heineken Cup level and so forth. The brand I was looking for is a game that I'm suited to, and I think this team best suits me."