Blues champion Adrian Choat finds new home in Japan's third division

Sayama Secom Rugguts have been revealed as the landing spot for Super Rugby Pacific champion Adrian Choat, with the Blues workhorse calling time on his career in New Zealand after six years of professional rugby.

Choat was an energetic influence off the bench during the Blues’ all-conquering 2024 season and announced in May that he would be leaving the club at the conclusion of the 2025 season. He played just one game for Auckland in the 2025 NPC season.

The 28-year-old will join fellow Kiwi Chase Tiatia on the third division team, as one of the latest New Zealanders to take up an opportunity in Japan. The Auckland region also farewelled U20 lock Randall Baker this week, who joined Billy Harmon and Springbok pair Faf de Klerk and Jesse Kriel at the Canon Eagles.

In recent weeks, the Highlanders have lost bruising midfielder Thomas Umaga-Jensen and young playmaker Ajay Faleafaga to Toyota Industries Shuttles, with the Aichi club also securing the services of Chiefs duo Kaleb Trask and Gideon Wrampling.

 

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With Choat’s departure, the Blues have looked to the next generation with 2024 New Zealand U20 star Malachi Wrampling, along with former New England Free Jacks flanker Terrell Peita, who now plies his trade with Northland.

Emerging trio Cameron Christie, Che Clark, and Anton Segner are also well-placed to take a step up in 2026 for the Auckland club, having each completed strong NPC campaigns.

There remains uncertainty over Hoskins Sotutu’s future with the Blues, with RugbyPass insider Neil Fissler last month reporting on renewed interest in the 14-cap All Black from Gallagher PREM clubs Gloucester and Leicester Tigers, with England head coach Steve Borthwick keenly aware of the 27-year-old’s current contract expiring in 2026.