Brodie Retallick has made his position clear. He will not come back to New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup 2027. After 109 Test appearances, the veteran lock believes his body is no longer suited to the demands of international rugby. For Retallick, the All Blacks chapter of his career is firmly closed.
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The 34-year-old returned to headlines this week after a remarkable four-try performance for Kobe Kobelco Steelers in their 67–21 win over Ricoh Black Rams. The display reignited speculation about a possible All Blacks comeback. Retallick was quick to dismiss it. He confirmed he will remain in Japan until the end of his current deal.
Retallick signed a three-year contract with Kobe in 2023 and intends to see it through. Like former teammate Richie Mo’unga, he could have returned to New Zealand ahead of the 2027 tournament. But unlike others, Retallick has no interest in revisiting Test rugby.
I honestly think my time is over, he told Sport Nation. Sometimes you wonder if you still have it in you. But the body is ageing. After so many years away from home, I feel those days are behind me.
Rugby World Cup: Life and Rugby in Japan
Retallick admitted his four-try effort was unusual. He described it as a bit silly, a bit out of hand. Still, the performance underlined how much he is enjoying his rugby in Japan. He believes the upcoming season could be Kobe’s strongest yet.
Kobe Kobelco Steelers have strengthened their squad significantly. The arrival of Ardie Savea, who was named New Zealand Rugby Player of the Year, has added star power and leadership. Anton Lienert-Brown has also joined on a one-year sabbatical deal. Their additions helped offset the departure of Ngani Laumape to Moana Pasifika.
After five rounds of the Japan Rugby League One season, Kobe sits third on the table with four wins and one loss. Their only defeat came against early leaders Kubota Spears. Retallick says the environment suits him. We are at a strong club in a strong position, he said. We have big goals, and our rugby is going very well. There’s not much to complain about.
Rugby World Cup 2027 Build-Up: New Zealand Focus
As Retallick settles into life in Japan, New Zealand’s attention is shifting toward preparation for the Rugby World Cup 2027. The All Blacks will rely on key fixtures to test combinations and build squad depth. Matches such as New Zealand Vs Chile will be crucial in giving emerging players valuable Test experience.
These games allow coaches to test tactics and strengthen bench depth. New Zealand vs Chile also provides a chance to trial new attacking systems. Similarly, New Zealand Vs Hong Kong offers a competitive but controlled environment for the coaching staff to rotate players. It will help the team build cohesion and match rhythm before facing tougher opponents.
The bigger challenge arrives with Australia Vs New Zealand, one of the fiercest rivalries in rugby. This fixture will test the All Blacks’ readiness and resilience. Australia vs New Zealand is also a chance to evaluate the squad under pressure and assess leadership options for 2027.
These matches collectively shape New Zealand’s pathway to the tournament. They are designed to build momentum while avoiding burnout, a balance Retallick knows well from his Test career.
Japan Rugby League One Vs Super Rugby
Having spent more than a decade in Super Rugby, Retallick is well placed to compare competitions. He says the speed of the Japanese league often surprises people. The game is just as fast as Super Rugby, and sometimes even faster, he said. The biggest difference is probably defence. He explained that while some Japanese teams boast massive forward packs, others rely on speed and skill.
This leads to variation in contact intensity. Not every match carries the same physical toll as top-level New Zealand competition, but the demands remain high. Fitness, discipline, and execution are non-negotiable. Retallick rejects the idea that playing in Japan is an easy option. Instead, he sees it as a different challenge that suits where he is in his career.
Why the All Blacks Door Is Closed
Retallick’s decision is not only physical. It is also personal. He has built a life in Japan and values the balance it provides. Years of international rugby required constant travel, intense preparation, and relentless pressure. He feels he has already achieved everything he wanted in the black jersey. World titles, leadership roles, and over a century of Tests have secured his legacy.
Returning for one final campaign would require sacrificing comfort and long-term health. For New Zealand, his absence will shape planning for the Rugby World Cup 2027. The All Blacks will need to develop new locking combinations and identify future leaders. Younger players will be given opportunities to step up in the coming seasons.
A Measured and Honest Decision
Brodie Retallick’s decision may disappoint fans hoping for one final All Blacks appearance. But it reflects honesty and self-awareness. He understands his body, his priorities, and the cost of elite international rugby. As the Rugby World Cup 2027 approaches, the global game continues to evolve. New leaders will emerge for New Zealand.
The All Blacks will refine their systems through matches like New Zealand vs Chile, New Zealand vs Hong Kong, and Australia vs New Zealand. Retallick, meanwhile, will continue to contribute at the club level in Japan. His legacy remains intact. His choice closes one chapter while allowing him to finish his career on his own terms.
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