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All Blacks halfback Byron Kelleher has confirmed he is leaving New Zealand after the rugby World Cup, having signed a two-year deal with the Agen club in France.
Kelleher announced his decision at a press conference in Hamilton last night after watching his Chiefs Super 14 team beat the Lions 34-7.
The 49-test No 9 told journalists it was time for a change in his life after playing professional rugby in New Zealand since 1997.
"I've got mixed emotions. It was a difficult time for me to decide whether to stay in New Zealand and carry on or decide whether to come to a change in my life," he said.
"I think a change in my life adds a challenge to my life and I'm going to a place that doesn't speak English and I'm really looking forward to indulging in the culture over there as well."
Kelleher, 30, is likely to line up for his third World Cup in France later this year.
He has been part of the All Blacks' conditioning squad of 22 over the summer and returns to Super 14 duties next weekend.
He had used the time off to consider his priorities.
"I made the decision probably about three weeks ago in my mind that I was ready to leave New Zealand," he said.
"It was always going to be a hard thing for me because I've been really patient waiting to get the top spot as the All Blacks' number nine. I sat on the bench for so many years and was just patient and persistent.
"I'm leaving the All Blacks but my heart will never leave the All Blacks. I've poured blood into that jersey and passed through it now like players before me."
Kelleher believed announcing the move now would take pressure off him and allow him to concentrate on trying to help the All Blacks win the World Cup for the first time since 1987.
Kelleher believed he could still return to the New Zealand game and contribute further.
"I just can't wait to get involved in the All Blacks' World Cup campaign and finish the year off with some passion and pride," he said.
"(But) my time in New Zealand rugby is not completed or finished.
"I will definitely be returning back to New Zealand after my time overseas. Whether that is in a playing form or pouring my knowledge into the country for what it has given me, I don't know. I definitely haven't finished what I want to give back to New Zealand."
- NZPA
