Three-time World Player of the Year Dan Carter announced he was leaving Japanese Top League side Kobelco Steelers in an Instagram post on Friday.
Carter, who won the Top League in his first season with Kobe last year, signed a two-year contract with the club in 2018 but, with Japan’s domestic season cancelled due to the new coronavirus outbreak, his time in the country looks to be over.
The two-time Rugby World Cup winner did not say if he was retiring from the sport.
When Top League cancelled the remainder of the season because of the coronavirus pandemic in March, Kobe were joint-top of the league with six wins from six.
“I’ve gone a bit quiet since the JRU announced they are cancelling all their competitions this season,” Carter wrote on Instagram.
“I know it’s the right decision with what the world is going through at the moment but I would have loved to try help my @kobelcosteelers_official family win another top league, and I’m gutted I can’t do this.
“I want to thank the club, fans and my team mates for welcoming me and making the last two seasons some of the most enjoyable rugby I have ever played.
“The club’s future is looking very bright, and I’m glad I got to add my little piece to the @kobelcosteelers_official legacy.
Carter is one of just two players to win the World Player of the Year award three times, alongside compatriot Richie McCaw, during a trophy-laden career.
Carter was a crucial part of both the 2011 and 2015 World Cup-winning sides, with his final Test cap coming in the 2015 final against Australia when he scored 19 points and was named player of the match.
He made 112 appearances for New Zealand, amassing 1,598 points and becoming the highest points scorer in test match rugby.