Sayonara Jerome!

Jerome Kaino is set to leave New Zealand rugby at the end of this year. The Rugby World Cup winner and IRB International Player of the Year nominee in 2011 has signed the largest deal for a New Zealander with Japanese club Toyota.

It is sad for Jerome Kaino who has emerged as one of the most fearsome tacklers in New Zealand rugby. At the same time, with the amount of tackling he has made over the last 7 years for the Blues, Auckland and All Blacks along with the shoulder reconstructions he has had to undergo, perhaps playing in the softer and slower paced Japanese Top League whilst being paid a lot more than he would here is quite possibly a no-brainer and the best decision Jerome could make for himself.

Anyway, Jerome Kaino has certainly established himself as an All Black legend, firmed by that Rugby World Cup win last October. He was always one to watch since being plucked from obscurity in 2004 for the end of year tour, but Jerome didn't really hit the peak of his powers until 2008 - thereafter it was full speed ahead for in my opinion, the All Blacks' best player last year.

And as for his replacement, don't worry. Remember when we wondered who would replace the multi-talented and hard-nosed Jerry Collins? Up stepped Jerome, and I'm sure there'll be someone ready to hit their peak and step into that now vacant no. 6 at the Blues and All Blacks.