All Black and Blues prop re-signs for another two years

All Black and Blues prop Ofa Tu’ungafasi has re-signed on a new two-year deal that will see him remain in New Zealand until the end of 2026.

Since making his debut in 2013 for the Blues he has made 144 appearances, becoming a club legend in the process and winning the Super Rugby Trans-Tasman title in 2021.

Tu’ungafasi could end up as the most capped Blues player of all-time, with legendary All Black hooker Keven Mealamu holding the record with 164 caps.

He made his All Black debut in 2016 and has been capped 59 times, featuring in two Rugby World Cups in 2019 and 2023. His new deal will take him to the eve of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

“The Blues holds a special place in my heart, and I’m honoured to extend my journey here,” Tu’ungafasi said in a statement.

“I’m proud to have played so much rugby for one club and it’s been cool to grow as a person and a player with the Blues.

“I take a lot of pride in contributing not only to our Blues community but also to the development of our younger players. It’s great to work with the new front-rowers and I’m committed to ensuring we build strength in that area.”

The Blues are chasing their first Super Rugby Pacific title and are currently top of the ladder ahead of a rivalry clash with the Crusaders in Christchurch this weekend.

They are looking to secure the number one seed over the final two weeks of regular season action which would see them potentially host a final at Eden Park.

The club is looking into the legality of bringing in Beauden Barrett for the rest of the season after the returning All Black finished his season in Japan.