Obano to pause England career for Pau move

Beno Obano, the England centre who has earned 16 Test caps, has agreed to leave the national side to sign with French Pro D2 club Pau at the conclusion of the current season. The 27‑year‑old will therefore put his international career on hold as he prepares to join the French side for the 2026‑27 campaign, a move that follows his recent stints with Harlequins and the England Saxons.

Obano’s decision comes after a period of limited availability for England, during which he has been hampered by injuries and competition for places. By joining Pau, the former Harlequins player aims to secure regular club football and rebuild his form in a new environment, while England will lose a seasoned inside‑centre for the foreseeable future. The move underscores the growing trend of England players seeking overseas contracts to extend their careers and gain new experiences.