Forgotten All Black Dalton Papali'i heading to Top 14 in France

He will head to France after this year's Super Rugby Pacific campaign after signing a three-year contract with Castres. Papali'i, who captained the Blues in their Super Rugby Pacific opener against the Chiefs at Eden Park on Saturday, admitted that it was a tough decision to leave the men from Auckland.

"This club means everything to me. I grew up dreaming of wearing the Blues jersey and representing my country. I've been lucky enough to live that dream for a long time," he said.

"The Blues gave me my chance, backed me, and helped me become the player and person I am. This was a really hard decision, but the opportunity in France is something that works well for where I'm at in my career with my young family.

"I'm fully committed to finishing my time here the right way. I love this club, the people, and our supporters, and I'll keep giving everything I've got into the season ahead."

He said he is looking forward to joining a long list of New Zealanders who have represented Castres over the years.

"I think I've reached the maturity necessary to have such an experience, to adapt to a different style of rugby and embark on a new adventure while contributing fully to the team," revealed Papali'i.

"I know the club's history; I know that several All Blacks have preceded me at Castres, such as Kees Meeuws, Carl Hoeft, Chris Masoe, and more recently Jack Goodhue and Gary Whetton, with whom I've had a long conversation.

"It's a city passionate about its club and offers a family-oriented environment. It's also a club that loves taking on challenges. All of that suits me."

Meanwhile, Blues general manager Rugby Murray Williams acknowledged Papali'i's immense contribution, noting his leadership, professionalism and connection to the club's values.

"Dalton embodies everything it means to be a Blues man," he said.

"We're proud of what he's achieved here, and will continue to support him and his family as he takes on this next chapter. This club will always be his home."

Papali'i has made 98 appearances for the Blues and is on track to play in his 100th match for the club during their Round Three Super Rugby Pacific match against the Brumbies in Canberra on February 28.

The 28-year-old made his All Blacks debut against Japan in 2018 under the guidance of former head coach Steve Hansen.

Although he missed out on selection for New Zealand's 2019 Rugby World Cup campaign in Japan, Papali'i became a regular in the All Blacks' matchday squads when Ian Foster replaced Hansen in 2020 and won the bulk of his 37 Test caps between that year and the 2023 global showpiece in France.

When Scott Robertson took over the All Blacks' coaching reins in 2024, Papali'i was initially still in the selection mix at the Test level, but he only made one appearance for the three-time world champions in 2025.