Perenara in talks for shock rugby-league switch

2015 World Cup-winning scrumhalf TJ Perenara has been linked with a stunning switch to the NRL after reports that his All Blacks contract would not be extended.

Reports from New Zealand have suggested that NZ Rugby is unwilling to offer Perenara a new contract once his stint in the Japanese Top League ends on 23 May.

The latest report from 1 News states that Perenara is considering a switch in code and is in talks with the Sydney Roosters, despite having no experience in the 13-man game.

‘We are talking to NZR and other parties that have approached us,’ Perenara’s agent, Warren Alcock, said.

The 29-year-old has been in excellent form for the Canon Eagles, but is in competition for the All Blacks No 9 jersey with Aaron Smith and Brad Weber, while Folau Fakatava was also considered to be a potential bolter before his season was ended by injury.

All Blacks great Sir John Kirwan on Tuesday made his feelings clear that NZ Rugby should by no means offer a new contract to Perenara, whose current deal will end this year.

‘You cannot re-sign Perenara,’ Kirwan says. ‘I think there are some young guys coming through.

‘I’d love to sign him, but if it was a case of signing a couple of young guys to get us to the next World Cup and further …

‘He’s been a great servant of the game, he’s in the twilight of his career and there are guys that are starting to stack up that will give us another two World Cups.’

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