The All Blacks' penchant for sabbaticals shows no signs of waning as Anton Lienert-Brown, another key player from the Chiefs, decides to skip the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season for a stint in Japan, echoing Ardie Savea's earlier decision. This move highlights a growing trend among New Zealand's rugby elite opting for short-term contracts in Asia before returning to their home turf.
Lienert-Brown's decision coincides with a contract extension with New Zealand Rugby, securing his allegiance until the end of the 2028 season, well past the 2027 Rugby World Cup. "I’m excited to recommit to New Zealand Rugby through to 2028. This year’s been frustrating with injuries outside of my control but pulling on the black jersey again last Saturday reminded me just how special this journey really is,” Lienert-Brown shared. His commitment extends beyond personal aspirations, deeply rooted in his dedication to his provincial team Waikato, the Chiefs, and the national team.
"Representing Waikato, the Chiefs and my country is something I never take for granted. My decision to stay reflects my commitment, not just to the teams I play for, but to giving everything I’ve got to the work that lies ahead.”
By agreeing to this sabbatical, Lienert-Brown will join forces with Savea at Kobelco Kobe Steelers in 2026. Both players are set to return to New Zealand in time for the July series, a crucial prelude to the World Cup. All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson commended Lienert-Brown's resilience and strategic foresight. "His experience, composure, and clarity in the midfield are hugely valuable. He’s overcome injury setbacks in recent years and has shown real resilience,” Robertson noted. “We’re thrilled to have him locked in through to 2028, and the experience he’ll gain in Japan will only enhance his game and leadership."
Since making his Chiefs debut back in 2014, and earning his first All Blacks cap two years later, Lienert-Brown has resisted numerous lucrative overseas offers, choosing to deepen his roots with the Chiefs where he has become an indispensable force. Reflecting on Lienert-Brown's upcoming sabbatical, Chiefs' new head coach Jono Gibbes remarked, "Anton is a massive asset to the Gallagher Chiefs, and this sabbatical is a great opportunity for him to experience a different rugby environment and learn from a new playing style. I look forward to seeing how this experience shapes him as a player and what he brings back to the team.”
As the rugby world watches, the strategic sabbatical might just be the edge Lienert-Brown needs to elevate his game further, proving once more why New Zealand's rugby machinery continues to dominate on the global stage.