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Dane Coles decides post-World Cup playing future

Dane Coles. Photo / Getty Images

Despite being linked to a move overseas by French media outlet RugbyRama, All Blacks hooker and Hurricanes captain Dane Coles has confirmed he is staying in New Zealand after extending his contract through to 2021.

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RugbyRama reported that Coles was expected to emulate Ben Smith and All Blacks captain Kieran Read in heading overseas.

Coles’ recommitment means New Zealand Rugby and the Hurricanes can continue to rely on his outstanding leadership, skill and experience for the next three years.

The 2015 Rugby World Cup winner, who led the Hurricanes to the club’s first Investec Super Rugby title a year later, said he was committed to continuing his career in New Zealand.

“I still feel like there are things that I want to achieve in New Zealand with teams that mean a lot to me,” Coles said.

“Missing all of last year’s Super Rugby season with injury made me realise just how much I missed being out there for the Hurricanes and I want more time in the jersey.”

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The 32-year-old has played 60 Tests for the All Blacks since making his debut against Scotland in 2012.

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Coles’ strength, mobility and speed helped to redefine the qualities required for a modern international front rower, with an ability to break through tackles and flat foot defenders that sets him apart.

In 2015, he cemented his place as the All Blacks first choice hooker and started in the Rugby World Cup final victory over Australia. Coles’ status as a leader was also recognised when he was named as captain of the Hurricanes for the 2016 Investec Super Rugby season.

All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen welcomed Coles’ recommitment.

“Dane is a valued member of the All Blacks group.  He is an important leader on and off the field and passionate advocate for the game and the All Blacks.  His is an important asset to any team he plays for and we’re all very happy he has re-signed,” Hansen said.

New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Steve Tew said Coles is a trusted, and highly valued player on and off the field.

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“Dane has become one of those influential players whose leadership sets an incredibly high standard in any team for which he plays.

“We know he still has his sights set on a few goals in New Zealand, and we are committed to helping him achieve those,” he said.

Coles played the last of his 100 Super Rugby games in the semifinal loss to the Lions in 2017, eight years after he made his debut.  He is a fan favourite for the Hurricanes, where he regularly leads from the front.

Hurricanes Head Coach John Plumtree was delighted that Coles would continue to be part of the club moving forward.

“It’s fantastic for everyone here that Dane will continue to lead us and be as influential as he is,” he said.

“You can never underestimate just how much he has to offer with his experience and just how much respect he has within our squad and within our coaching group.”

Hurricanes chief executive Avan Lee said it was incredibly positive to see Coles continue in the game in New Zealand.

“I know Dane would not like a fuss made of it but I think it is significant that a player of his calibre and standing will be here for an extended period. We are delighted and I know our members and fans will be too.”

Rugby World Cup City Guides – Oita:

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Nickers 33 minutes ago
Scott Robertson responds to criticism over All Blacks' handling errors

I thought we made a lot of progress against that type of defence by the WC last year. Lots of direct running and punching holes rather than using width. Against that type of defence I think you have to be looking to kick on first phase when you have front foot ball which we did relatively successfully. We are playing a lot of rugby behind the gain line at the moment. They are looking for those little interchanges for soft shoulders and fast ball or off loads but it regularly turns into them battering away with slow ball and going backwards, then putting in a very rushed kick under huge pressure.


JB brought that dimension when he first moved into 12 a couple of years ago but he's definitely not been at his best this year. I don't know if it is because he is being asked to play a narrow role, or carrying a niggle or two, but he does not look confident to me. He had that clean break on the weekend and stood there like he was a prop who found himself in open space and didn't know what to do with the ball. He is still a good first phase ball carrier though, they use him a lot off the line out to set up fast clean ball, but I don't think anyone is particularly clear on what they are supposed to do at that point. He was used really successfully as a second playmaker last year but I don't think he's been at that role once this year. He is a triple threat player but playing a very 1 dimensional role at the moment. He and Reiko have been absolutely rock solid on defence which is why I don't think there will be too much experimentation or changes there.

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