Last updated: 22nd July 2008
Masoe: France-bound
All Blacks flanker Chris Masoe appears to have given up the chase for the black jersey after Richie McCaw's recovery from injury, with Top 14 side Castres announcing his signature on Tuesday.
Samoan-born Masoe will join Castres on November 1 after agreeing to move to the Tarn region on a two-year deal from the Hurricanes.
"We have been in contact with Chris for more than two months," said Castres president Pierre-Yves Revol.
"Had he not been called to the All Black squad as cover for Richie McCaw, he would have joined us in July.
"I think his arrival brings a lot of potential to our back row.
"We also know we have brought a leading player, with great consistency, and who can acclimatise quickly to our environment."

Pictures from the British and Irish Lions victory in the third and final Test in Johannesburg.
The British and Irish Lions take time out to go on safari ahead of the third test against South Africa.
Pictures from an enthralling second Test between the British and Irish Lions and South Africa.
It's win or bust for the Lions but before they head to Pretoria, there was some last-minute training.
Pictures from the British and Irish Lions victory in the third and final Test in Johannesburg.
| Result |
|---|
| Guinness Premiership |
| Saturday 16th May |
| Guinness Premiership |
| Leicester 10 - 9 London Irish |
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