| Scrum-half Boss, who will sign a contract with the IRFU and Ulster Rugby, has Irish ancestry and would therefore be qualified to play for Ireland if his form warranted selection.
Boss was drafted into the Hurricanes squad for this year’s Rebel Sport Super 12 after playing for the Chiefs last year.
NZRU Deputy Chief Executive Steve Tew said it was disappointing to lose a player of Boss’ calibre.
“However, we appreciate that players have a choice about where they wish to play their rugby and Isaac has decided to gain some experience overseas,” Mr Tew said.
Boss said he would miss his family and playing rugby here in New Zealand.
“In particular, I will miss my mates at the Hurricanes, the Chiefs, Waikato and especially my teammates at the Southern United club in Tokoroa. However, as a professional rugby player I look forward to the chance of playing in a different environment and adding to my rugby experience,” Boss said.
Following discussions with Boss and having reached a commercial agreement with the Irish club, the NZRU and the Waikato Rugby Union have agreed to release the player from his contract at the end of September.
“I appreciate the NZRU’s and Waikato’s consideration and approach to my decision and our discussions about my desire to continue my professional career in Ireland. I have a passionate interest in my Irish heritage and I am very excited about the prospect of living in Ireland and playing for Ulster,” Boss said.
“At the moment, however, I am looking forward to the Super 12 season with the Hurricanes and then the NPC with Waikato. My focus now is with the Hurricanes and I just want to get on and play some rugby,” he added.
Waikato Rugby Union Chief Executive Gary Dawson said Boss’ departure would leave a void in the Waikato side.
“His skill and versatility is an asset to our team but we understand his decision to pursue his career overseas and he goes with our best wishes,” Mr Dawson said.
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