Joey Manu's code switch has finally been confirmed, with the Sydney Roosters star to join former All Blacks coach Ian Foster in Japan's League One next year.
Manu had already signalled his time at the Roosters was at an end as he sought a code switch, with Japan always regarded as the likely destination.
And his move to the 15-player game was finally rubber-stamped on Tuesday, with Japanese heavyweights Toyota Verblitz unveiling the Kiwis Test fullback alongside Foster.
"I know that the club has a proud history, and I am eager to become a part of such an exciting organisation," Manu said in a statement posted on the Toyota's website.
"I also eagerly anticipate playing alongside all the talented players at the club and working with the staff. I can't wait to play in front of the team's passionate supporters."
Foster has been out of work since last year's gutting defeat by the Springboks in the Rugby World Cup final, having opted not to reapply for the role earlier in the year amid a groundswell of support for Scott Robertson to succeed him.
That decision drew stinging criticism from Foster's former coaching buddy Steve Hansen, who is director of rugby at Toyota, while newly-announced Wallabies scrum coach Mike Cron also hit out at Foster's treatment by New Zealand Rugby.
But Foster will now have the chance to reignite his coaching career in Japan, with Manu's recruitment set to generate huge interest, particularly back in New Zealand, where the 27-year-old may yet return to chase an All Blacks call-up.
To be eligible for Test rugby New Zealanders must play Super Rugby Pacific or have been granted a playing sabbatical overseas, like the one announced for Jordie Barrett Tuesday.
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is the most recent New Zealander to try his hand at a rugby switch, but Manu's former Roosters teammate could not cement a starting position with the Blues nor All Blacks and opted to return to rugby league with the Warriors.
Manu's initiation should be smoother in the free-flowing Japanese league, where the likes of Ardie Savea, Aaron Smith and Beauden Barrett are all playing this season.
While Barrett will return to New Zealand rugby midway through this year, Smith will be one of Manu's teammates at Toyota next year with the 2015 World Cup winner contracted to the club on a long-term deal. Toyota currently sit third in League One this season.
At 29, Manu could still return to the NRL once his Toyota deal is up, with the New Zealander having already admitted he would find it hard to play for any club but the Roosters in the future.
"I have cherished my time playing rugby league for the Roosters, so it's been a tough decision to leave the club and NRL," Manu said.
"I will always be grateful to wear the Roosters jersey and to everyone who has supported me and provided me with some incredible opportunities."