Cane will not miss any internationals during his time in Japan, however other All Blacks like Richie Mo’unga have signed multi-year deals in Japan which effectively rule them out of selection for the national side unless New Zealand’s governing body changes their rules.

"A lot of the Springboks have shown the ability to play in League One and go back to international rugby fairly quickly and continue to play their best," said Cane at a news conference in Tokyo when asked if it was time for a rule change.

If New Zealand players could return from overseas stints and prove it is not detrimental to their performance "maybe that conversation can be had", Cane said.

Outgoing All Blacks Head Coach Ian Foster has previously said it would be a “disaster” for rugby in New Zealand should the rules be changed as that would draw their talent away from Super Rugby and affect domestic player development.

Cane has held talks with new All Blacks Head Coach Scott Robertson but was not drawn on whether he would continue as captain.

"I know the All Blacks coaches will be keeping an eye on some of us boys over here, so sole focus will just be to play well and try to improve," he said.

Playing in Japan was once seen as a destination for overseas players in the twilight of this careers to earn money at clubs without strict salary caps which are seen in other leagues, luring top talent in their prime is giving more cachet.

"It's grown immensely. It's much more competitive," said Kolbe, who signed for Suntory alongside Cane. "Everybody is up to standard now. That's the exciting thing."

Suntory were defeated in the semi-finals last season by eventual winners Kubota Spears, who boast New Zealand hooker Dane Coles, Australian playmaker Bernard Foley and Welsh fullback Liam Williams in their squad this season.