New Zealand

Liam Messam set for Japan, Sevens switch

ESPN Staff

Liam Messam has reportedly flagged his Olympic interest © Getty Images Enlarge

Chiefs co-captain Liam Messam has reportedly signed a deal to play in Japan after this year's Rugby World Cup but will return home to chase a spot at the Rio Olympics with the New Zealand Sevens team.

Messam's likely commitment to New Zealand Rugby follows the long-term deals signed last week by fellow All Blacks Brodie Retallick and Julian Savea, although the veteran back-rower may miss some of the Chiefs' 2016 Super Rugby campaign.

According to stuff.co.nz, Messam has informed New Zealand Sevens coach Gordon Tietjens of his Olympic intentions and would therefore need to avail himself for several of next year's HSBC World Sevens Series events in order to make the squad. Messam's Chiefs teammate, Sonny Bill Williams is also rumoured to be considering a Sevens switch but injured fly-half Aaron Cruden has already confirmed his focus is the All Blacks.

NZ Rugby is expected to unveil a list of players in contention for the Olympics within the next couple of months.

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