Wallaby star quits Toulon

Australian international flank George Smith will quit French Top 14 side Toulon to take up an €800,000 (US$1.16 million) a season deal with Japan’s Sanyo Wild Knights.

“Smith decided to leave for Japan and we can’t keep him,” said Toulon president Mourad Boudjellal.

“Everyone will remember his time here.

“He has been an exceptional player at all levels,” Boudjellal added.

Toulon had offered 30-year-old Smith a contract extension, but the Tokyo side’s staggering offer proved too good to resist.

Smith joined the French side last year after 10 years with Australian Super Rugby side Brumbies.

AFP