George Kruis and Hadleigh Parkes to play in Japan for Panasonic Wild Knights next season

England lock George Kruis and Wales centre Hadleigh Parkes will play in Japan for the Panasonic Wild Knights next season, the Top League club said on Monday.

The pair are expected to arrive in Japan in November ahead of the 2021 Top League season, which begins in January.

The 2020 campaign was cancelled due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

Kruis, a key part of the England side that reached the World Cup final last year, will be leaving Saracens after over a decade at the club.

Panasonic, who won three consecutive Top League titles from 2014-2016, are coached by former Australia coach Robbie Deans.

"Although this has clearly been a tough decision, I am extremely excited and honoured to take on this new challenge and chapter in my career," said Kruis.

"(This) is a really exciting time for rugby in Japan, following the tremendous World Cup they hosted last year.

"I am very honoured at the opportunity to join such as prestigious team as the Panasonic Wild Knights.

"I have known Robbie Deans for a while now, and am sure that the squad and the program he will run will give us the best possible chance of winning silverware.

"I loved my time in Japan over the Rugby World Cup, and am really looking forward to immersing myself, my wife and young daughter into Japanese life once I arrive later in the year."

Kruis, 30, has signed a one-year deal with an option to extend for a further year in Japan, meaning his international future with England is uncertain.

The Rugby Football Union does not select overseas-based players unless in "exceptional circumstances" although the governing body has not categorically ruled out selecting Saracens players who move abroad for England.

England head coach Eddie Jones said he respects Kruis' decision.

"I wish George all the best for his move to Japan," Jones said.

"We had some discussions about his club rugby and I think this offers him the opportunity for a different rugby and cultural experience which will allow him to continue to grow and develop as a player and as an individual.

"George is a tough, well-respected member of our team and I respect his decision."

It was confirmed earlier this month that Parkes would be leaving Scarlets, where he has played since 2014, along with seven other players and head coach Brad Mooar.

Parkes, who will turn 33 in October, is looking forward to bringing his family to Japan.

"I have known Robbie Deans for a while now, and am sure that the squad and the program he will run will give us the best possible chance of winning silverware," said the New Zealand-born Parkes.

"I loved my time in Japan over the Rugby World Cup, and am really looking forward to immersing myself, my wife and young daughter into Japanese life once I arrive later in the year."

Japanese teams have attracted a host of top players in recent years, including three-time World Player of the Year Dan Carter and Australian pair Will Genia and Quade Cooper.