Richie Mo’unga Bids Farewell to Japan as Winning Streak Ends
The remarkable championship streak of All Blacks playmaker Richie Mo’unga has come to an end. After a long run of domestic and international success, his Japanese club, Toshiba Brave Lupus, was defeated 26-3 in a Japan Rugby League One quarter-final by the Kubota Spears.
The loss marks a definitive conclusion to a challenging season for the Brave Lupus. While the team dominated in both 2024 and 2025, they faced significant hurdles this year, including a seven-match losing streak that nearly derailed their campaign before they managed to secure a sixth-place finish.
Reflecting on his time in Japan, Mo’unga shared a message of gratitude on his Instagram page. “Not to be. I want to thank all the people of Japan who have made my time here so enjoyable. An experience of a lifetime,” he wrote. “Me and my family are very grateful. To my Toshiba family, thank you all! We did something pretty special and created memories I’ll never forget. Arigato gozaimasu.”
Looking Ahead to the All Blacks
With his Japanese season concluded, the 32-year-old Mo’unga is now shifting his focus toward a potential return to the international stage. Although he is not eligible for the All Blacks until after their upcoming tour of South Africa in August and September, he remains a candidate to travel as an injury replacement.
Mo’unga, who has 56 Test caps to his name, is scheduled to return to Christchurch. He will join his Canterbury teammates to prepare for the NPC season, which is set to begin in late July. He remains under contract with the Crusaders and New Zealand Rugby through the end of next year’s World Cup in Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the end of Mo’unga’s championship streak?
His streak ended following a 26-3 quarter-final defeat against the Kubota Spears, who featured players such as Shaun Stevenson, Bernard Foley, and Malcolm Marx.
Is Richie Mo’unga eligible for the upcoming All Blacks tour?
He is not eligible for the South African tour in August and September, though he could potentially join the squad as an injury replacement.
What is next for Mo’unga in his domestic career?
He will return to Christchurch to play for Canterbury in the NPC, which commences in late July, and is committed to the Crusaders and New Zealand Rugby through the 2027 World Cup.
How do you think the competition for the No. 10 jersey will impact the All Blacks’ performance in the upcoming Nations Championship tests against France, Italy, and Ireland?