All Blacks and Blues loose forward Jerome Kaino has announced he will be leaving New Zealand at the end of this Super Rugby season to play club rugby in France.

The 34-year-old, who is a double Rugby World Cup winner, made his professional rugby debut in 2004. He finishes his All Blacks career having played 81 Tests, while he is the third-most capped Blues player in history with 127 games to date, behind Keven Mealamu (164) and Tony Woodcock (137).

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen wished Kaino well.

‘He’s had a long and distinguished career in the All Blacks jersey and brought a physicality and skill level to his game which made him the best in the world in his position.

‘He can be rightly proud of everything he has achieved in the All Blacks, which included helping win two World Cups.’

Photo: Hannah Johnston/Getty Images