All Black Owen Franks signs with English club Northampton

One of the best props of the modern era, All Blacks and Crusaders centurion Owen Franks has announced he will be leaving New Zealand Rugby at the end of 2019.

31-year-old Franks will head to English club Northampton Saints at the end of the year where he will play alongside brother Ben.

"The Crusaders, All Blacks and Canterbury Rugby have been a big part of my life, and my family's lives, for more than a decade now, and I'm grateful for every opportunity I've had to live my dream in those jerseys," Franks said.

"New Zealand will always be home, but Northampton presents a great opportunity for me to test myself in a new rugby environment, and reconnect with family there.

"While I know I'll look back at the end of my time in New Zealand with an immense amount of pride, I still have a lot I want to achieve this year and some big goals to tick off before I leave."

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) CEO Steve Tew has led the tributes to Franks.

"Owen set the standard for professional players in his unwavering commitment to preparation and playing the game at the highest level. While he will be with us for one more season, now is the opportunity to acknowledge everything he has done for the game.

"He was the third youngest prop to ever pull on the All Blacks jersey, a testament to his drive and dedication from an early age, and is one of just nine All Blacks centurions. It's that consistency as well as his quiet, no-nonsense approach to the game that fans love about Owie and he will leave our shores as an All Blacks legend.

"We wish him all the best in his final season with us."

All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen added: "Owie is one of the most professional players I've had the privilege of coaching. The standards he sets for himself — and others — are exemplary.

"His unbelievable commitment to his preparation, on-field and gym training, diet and his game is there for all to see, and inspires others. He has done this from the first time he made the All Blacks in 2009, has continued that throughout his whole career, and his achievement in reaching 106 Tests to date reflects that.

"We wish Owen, wife Emma and their family all the very best when their new adventure starts next year."

Crusaders Head Coach Scott Robertson said: "Owen is the ultimate professional. His preparation and work ethic is unparalleled, and he trains tirelessly to be the best in his position.

"He is what we hope every young prop coming through the Crusaders region aspires to be like, and we look forward to a huge 2019 season alongside him"

This article was first published on nzherald.co.nz and is republished here with permission.