14 Jul 2020

Kahui still a force to be reckoned with

2:29 pm on 14 July 2020

The former All Blacks midfielder Richard Kahui is making a return to Super Rugby, signing with the Western Force to play in the Australian edition of the revamped competition.

The 35-year-old Rugby World Cup winner has spent the past seven years plaing in Japan Top League side Toshiba.

Richard Kahui has joined the Western Force after seven years with Japanese club side Toshiba.

Richard Kahui has joined the Western Force after seven years with Japanese club side Toshiba. Photo: Photosport

Kahui has already completed his two week quarantine period and is now training with the Western Force squad.

Kahui played 18 tests for the All Blacks, including the 2011 World Cup final win over France in Auckland - startin on the the wing however his playing career in New Zealand was blighted by injury.

He was also part of the Chiefs' 2012 Super Rugby title-winning campaign and joins another former All Black, lock Jeremy Thrush, at the Perth based franchise.

Western Force Head of Rugby Matt Hodgson said the addition of Kahui adds a wealth of experience to the squad.

"With 68 Super Rugby caps and a number of domestic and international honours to his name, Kahui is another quality signing for us," Hodgson said.

"His knowledge of the game, defensive ability and the level of professionalism he brings to training will be huge for our season, we can't wait to see him out there in the blue and black.

"It's not just his on-field exploits that we're excited about, as his insight and winning mentality are sure to prove invaluable for the entire team."