Magpies captain and Hawke’s Bay Rugby centurion Ash Dixon has announced he is heading to Japan on a two-year deal to play in the new Japanese League which begins in January 2022.

Dixon (32) brought up his 100th game for the Magpies in last year’s memorable Ranfurly Shield victory over Otago and so far amassed 109 games for his beloved Magpies and as their most consistent player over a number of years, Dixon will depart for his new Japanese adventure at the end of the Magpies 2021 Bunnings NPC campaign.

Hawke’s Bay Rugby CEO Jay Campbell said. “Ash arrived in the Bay as a highly promising hooker out of Christchurch Boys High and when he leaves will have worn the black and white jersey over 100 times; captain for many, won the Ranfurly Shield three times, won trophies and just as importantly won the hearts and minds of fans throughout the country for the way he conducts himself on and off the field and being always giving 100% every time he represented Napier Tech, Magpies, Highlanders and the Māori All Blacks. Ash departs as one of the greats to represent our province.”

Campbell added ‘It has been a privilege to be involved with someone who is the consummate professional. An absolute competitor who set huge standards for himself and his teammates which he was never willing to compromise and a real leader of men. While it’s a massive loss for the Magpies, I know Dicko will be absolutely driven to add another chapter to his legacy before he says sayonara’

Magpies head coach Mark Ozich added ‘ Ash leaving for Japan is an exciting time for him and his family and a new challenge for a real warrior of New Zealand Rugby.  Whilst losing someone of Ash’s ability, stature and leadership is a huge loss, I can understand the timing is right for him.  He will be a massive loss to the Magpies, Highlanders and New Zealand Rugby.  We wish him well and I certainly appreciate all he has done for me personally and the Magpies over a long period of service.

Dixon said it was a difficult decision to leave.

“I’ve been incredibly grateful for the love and loyalty the Bay has shown me over the years and to play over 100 games for this prestigious province is something I will cherish forever’’ And added ‘’To all the staunch supporters who have supported myself and the magpies through thick and thin you are not forgotten…thankyou’’

Dixon will captain the Magpies when they defend the Ranfurly Shield against Otago on Saturday at Mclean Park on Saturday afternoon in their second NPC match.

Given today’s announcement its only right to assume that the Hawke’s Bay rugby public will be rushing to secure their tickets to witness one of Hawke’s Bay Rugby’s favourite sons running out onto McLean Park for almost the final time.

Article added: Thursday 12 August 2021