All Black Dalton Papali’i suffers devastating start to career in France

Castres will be without marquee signing Dalton Papali’i for the first half of the season after the All Blacks flanker underwent surgery on a ruptured Achilles tendon this week, the club have revealed.

The 37-cap All Black, 28, made the move to the Top 14 from the Blues this summer, headlining the club’s list of signings after their 10th place finish in the league last season.

The club returned for pre-season training this week ahead of the new campaign, which begins in early September, but revealed Papali’i suffered the injury on just the second day back. After undergoing surgery on Wednesday, the flanker is expected to be sidelined for six months.

Castres wrote on their social media channels: “Our new signing, back-rower Dalton Papali’i, ruptured his Achilles tendon during training yesterday and underwent surgery this Wednesday. He will be sidelined for a minimum of six months.

“Everyone at Castres Olympique stands firmly behind Dalton and will fully support him throughout his recovery.”

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After his move to France was announced in February, the All Black said: “ I think I’ve reached the maturity necessary to have such an experience to adapt to a different style of rugby and embark on a new adventure while contributing fully to the team.

“I know the club’s history; I know that several All Blacks have preceded me at Castres, such as Kees Meeuws, Carl Hoeft, Chris Masoe, and more recently Jack Goodhue and Gary Whetton, with whom I’ve had a long conversation. It’s a city passionate about its club and offers a family-oriented environment. It’s also a club that loves taking on challenges. All of that suits me.”

Reflecting on his time with the Blues, he said: “This club means everything to me. I grew up dreaming of wearing the Blues jersey and representing my country. I’ve been lucky enough to live that dream for a long time.

“The Blues gave me my chance, backed me, and helped me become the player and person I am. This was a really hard decision, but the opportunity in France is something that works well for where I’m at in my career with my young family.”