Exit door.

England international George Kruis has confirmed he is leaving Saracen for Japan with the lock set to link up with the Panasonic Wild Knights in November.

Kruis has been linked with a move to Japan ever since Saracens’ relegation to the Championship has been confirmed and is set to replace All Black Sam Whitelock at the Top League club.

The 45-times capped England star will be joined by Wales international Hadleigh Parks at the Wild Knights with the Scarlets man also confirming his move to Japan in an emotional statement.

30-year-old Kruis has signed a one-year deal with an option for a second but has not ruled out playing for England again.

“This is not an international retirement but a chance to do something that has been itching me for a long while,” said Kruis.

“I am only 30 and would like to think there is plenty left in the legs.

“The contract leaves things open nicely. I am still massively interested in England and Lions honours. I have spoken to Warren Gatland [the Lions head coach] and I would love to be involved in next year’s tour to South Africa.

I wanted him to know and I do not see going to Japan as counting myself out. I thoroughly enjoyed it last time [in New Zealand in 2017] but time will tell.”