Former All Black Hika Elliot is not going to be joing Perpignan as reported after he failed medical. The choice implies that the 37-year-old hooker gained’t be capable of play in France if he desires to proceed his profession.

The previous Chiefs participant was set to hitch the Catalan aspect as a Rugby World Cup joker. Prime 14 golf equipment are allowed to signal ‘jokers’ in lieu of the doubtless participation of a participant within the flagship worldwide occasion in September.

With the World Cup quick approaching and the potential participation of Seilala Lam with Samoa, Perpignan discovered themselves in want of a hooker to bolster their ranks.

However, their search will go on, as Elliot is reported to have failed his medical earlier this week. Having arrived the club, the medical was the final hurdle for the veteran forward but in a blow for the both parties – and for reasons unclear – the exam was failed.

Perpignan’s management, led by head coach Franck Azéma, made the strategic move to secure the former All Black’s services for the duration of the tournament and his arrival would have provided much-needed depth to the Catalan squad.

Elliot, a free agent after being released by Colomiers, has a wealth of experience in both international and domestic rugby. The New Zealand hooker had previously plied his trade in France with stints at Oyonnax, Nevers, and most recently Colomiers, where he had been a key player since 2020.

During his time at Colomiers, Elliot donned the jersey in 51 games. Elliot won several caps for the All Blacks, but left New Zealand in 2017 to join Oyonnax, after facing the British and Irish Lions during their tour of New Zealand.