New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter has announced that he will take a six-month break from rugby after the All Blacks' tour Europe in November.

The 31-year-old said that he is feeling the effects of more than a decade at the top and hopes to extend his career by taking a sabbatical.

"When you play the game full-time at this level it does take a toll on your body," Reuters quotes the two-time IRB World Player of the Year as saying.

"I've had a few injury niggles over recent years, so I'm keen to ensure I do everything I can to recover fully from those and prolong my career."

New Zealand will play France, England and Ireland during the tour of Europe, which starts in Paris on November 9.

Written by
Michael Penkman