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New Zealand second row Sam Whitelock has committed his future to the All Blacks, signing a deal through to 2020.
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The 28-year-old, capped 84 times by his country, made his All Blacks debut in 2010 and was a key member of their World Cup winning squads in 2011 and 2015.
The Crusaders captain is 11th on the list of All Blacks appearance-makers, as well as being the most capped lock in New Zealand history.
“When I considered whether my immediate playing future was here in New Zealand and Christchurch, I didn’t need to look far for the answer,” he said.
“My wife Hannah and I have recently welcomed a new addition to our family, I am still genuinely excited to be playing rugby for these teams and I feel like there is still plenty more to achieve.
“There is more than enough to motivate me to keep playing and performing for these teams, so I am thrilled and honoured to have re-signed with New Zealand Rugby, the BNZ Crusaders and Canterbury Rugby through to 2020.”
Coach Steve Hansen named Whitelock in the starting XV in every World Cup game in 2015 and he was pleased to see the forward sign an extension on his contract.
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“On behalf of New Zealand Rugby, as well as all New Zealand rugby fans, I want to congratulate Sam and his wife Hannah on his decision,” said Hansen.
“He’s a world-class lock and together with Brodie Retallick forms one of the best international locking partnerships in world rugby at present.
“Sam is also great contributor to our environment: he thinks a lot about the game, is a flexible thinker, leads very well within the group and has become a very, very important component in the All Blacks.
“Once again, it’s great to have another one of our key men re-sign with New Zealand Rugby.”
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