All Blacks captain Sam Cane is aiming to pass the 100-Test milestone before retiring from international rugby at the end of the 2024 season.
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The 32-year-old back-rower announced his retirement plans in a statement on Monday.
Cane has been playing club rugby in Japan during a sabbatical but remains eligible to be selected for the All Blacks, who open their international season with two Tests against England, on July 6 and 13.
Cane has played 95 times for the All Blacks, including 27 as captain.
He scored two tries on his debut in 2012 against Ireland and was integral to New Zealand's World Cup final win over Australia in 2015.
He has been released from the final year of his New Zealand contract - initially set to end 2025 - to take up a three-year deal with Suntory Goliath in Tokyo.
New Zealand coach Scott Robertson has tried to attract veteran lock Sam Whitelock back from France in what has been interpreted as a search for a new captain.
The 35-year-old Whitelock retired from international rugby after last year's World Cup.
"It's part of the natural process that happens in rugby," Cane said.
"I had my time as captain and it was a huge honour and privilege.
"If I'm fortunate enough to be selected in the All Blacks this year then I'll still be myself," he said.
"I love that team and I just want to see the All Blacks do well.
"If part of my role is contributing leadership off the field or on the field, I'll be happy to support the new captain as best as I can to help make it a smooth transition."
Cane has not always been a popular figure with fans after succeeding All Blacks great Richie McCaw at openside flanker.
He has battled injuries throughout his international career, including a broken neck in 2018.
He was sent off early in last year's World Cup final, leaving New Zealand to play most of the match with 14 men against South Africa.
Australian Associated Press
