All Blacks prop Ethan de Groot has signed a new contract with New Zealand Rugby that will keep him in New Zealand until the end of 2026. The deal also extends his career with the Highlanders in DHL Super Rugby Pacific and Southland in the Bunnings Warehouse NPC.
“It was an easy decision to stay in New Zealand,” said de Groot. “All I want to do is play for my country and represent my home region.”
In 2022, the 24-year-old made significant progress in his performance in the All Blacks’ front row. Although he was initially not chosen for the Steinlager Series against Ireland, de Groot persisted and reclaimed his position in the squad. He demonstrated his capability as the primary loosehead for the subsequent 10 tests of the season.
The Southlander’s signing comes after New Zealand Rugby also extended the contract of de Groot’s front-row partner in the All blacks, Tyrel Lomax, who will remain contracted through until 2026.
“We are proud of the work Ethan has put into his career so far,” said NZR CEO Mark Robinson. “We believe in him and will continue to support his growth at all levels.”
As he gears up for the Rugby World Cup later this year, de Groot has been impressing the coaches with his exceptional scrummaging abilities while playing for the Highlanders. These remarkable performances have further strengthened his position for selection to the national team.
“The club is extremely proud of Ethan’s success over the last few years,” said Highlanders CEO Roger Clark. “He’s a local lad and his achievements are an inspiration to many young players by showing what can be achieved and what is possible if you dream big and work hard.
“We are currently committing to a number of players from our region and having key players like Ethan allows us to continue to build better teams for the future.”
Highlanders coach Clarke Dermody added: “Ethan has come a long way since he first joined us. He has worked hard on many aspects of his game and conditioning.
“His consistent performances and selection for the All Blacks are testament to his dedication to improvement and the genuine talent he possesses. He has the capability over the next three years to play a lot of rugby for the All Blacks and to be a key part of the Highlanders engine room.
“I am excited about the level to which he could take his game over the next few years. He’s a proud Southlander and his commitment for another three years to the Highlanders is certainly great news for our team and our region.”
A product of Southland Boys’ High school and the Rugby Southland Academy, the 24-year-old has amassed 13 Test caps in addition to his 32 Highlanders games to date.
“It’s great to see Ethan has committed to NZR, the Highlanders and the Stags for the next three years,” said Rugby Southland Director of Rugby Matt Saunders.
“He cares deeply for his province and has shown our aspiring All Blacks that the pathway is available directly from Southland.”
Great news. If they stay fit, I've a feeling that Ethan, Samisoni and Tyrell will be regarded as the best front row in the biz after the RWC.