All Blacks Star Considering South African Club Move Ahead of 2027 World Cup

• Ethan de Groot has committed his future to New Zealand Rugby, but a temporary move to South Africa could still be on the cards before the next World Cup
• The All Blacks prop has explained why South African rugby appeals to him and what he believes he could learn from playing against the country's powerful forwards
• With the 2027 Rugby World Cup approaching, De Groot has revealed the two countries he would consider for a possible season away from New Zealand

All Blacks loosehead prop Ethan de Groot is considering the possibility of joining a South African club before the 2027 Rugby World Cup, despite recently committing his future to New Zealand Rugby.

The 28-year-old signed a new deal on Wednesday, 13 August 2026, which will keep him in New Zealand until the end of 2029. However, he has suggested that a temporary move abroad could still form part of his plans.

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Speaking during the All Blacks' Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour, De Groot said he could see himself spending a full season in South Africa.

"I could probably see myself doing a sabbatical over here potentially, do a full year of scrumming over here, learn a few things into the next World Cup," he said, as quoted by the New Zealand Herald and reported by SA Rugby Magazine.

Why South African rugby appeals

De Groot identified South Africa and France as his preferred destinations, citing the strength of their forward play.

"I think just the sheer size of some of these blokes getting around and they're a scrumming nation," he said.

He added that it would be valuable to experience how South African forwards approach the scrum. The prop has also enjoyed the country's food, praising biltong, dried sausages and steaks during his stay.

De Groot's World Cup plans

For now, De Groot remains contracted to New Zealand Rugby. His comments indicate that any South African move would be a temporary sabbatical rather than a permanent departure.

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With the 2027 World Cup approaching, the All Blacks star could potentially use a season abroad to add another dimension to his game before returning to New Zealand.

All Blacks coach Dave Rennie raises fresh South African rugby talking point

Briefly News also reported that All Blacks coach Dave Rennie had raised concerns about the way stoppages are handled in South African rugby following New Zealand's emphatic victory over the Sharks.

His comments added another layer to an already intense tour, with the All Blacks preparing for a crucial run of fixtures that includes clashes with South African opposition.

Source: Briefly News