Rugby: Ngani Laumape to leave New Zealand, signs for French club Stade Francais

All Blacks and Hurricanes midfielder Ngani Laumape is leaving New Zealand, after signing with French Top 14 side Stade Francais.

The 28-year-old's decision was tweeted by the Paris club and will prevent Laumape adding to his 15 All Blacks test appearances.

With the rise of Jack Goodhue, Anton Lienert-Brown, Rieko Ioane and Braydon Ennor, Laumape faced stiff competition to hold down an All Blacks midfield spot, after missing selection for the 2019 World Cup.

Laumape will link with his new French team after Super Rugby Trans-Tasman.

He'll be joined by England winger Harry Glover, French International prop Clément Castets, South African tighthead prop Nemo Roelofse and lock Romain Briatte, who have all been announced as Stade Francais players.

Laumape will replace current Stade Francais midfielder Gael Fickou for the 2021/22 Top 14 season, with the French international signing for rivals Racing 92.