Five key players commit their future to New Zealand

Crusaders duo Ryan Crotty and Scott Barrett are the latest players to have extended their contracts with New Zealand Rugby.

Centre Crotty has committed to the Super Rugby champions and the All Blacks until 2019, while lock Barrett signed on until 2020.

They follow Highlanders pair Waisake Naholo and Liam Squire and Blues prop Ofa Tu’ungafasi in re-signing with NZ Rugby, as the World Cup looms on the horizon.

“I took the time to consider my options, and it was clear to me that I still want to be playing my rugby here in New Zealand,” Crotty said.

“2019 will be my 11th season with the Crusaders, but I still feel as passionate and enthusiastic as I did when my career began.

“I’m thoroughly enjoying my time in this team and love turning up to work every day alongside great mates, so whether I am representing the All Blacks, Crusaders or Canterbury, I still have plenty of desire to play my best rugby for each of them and I look forward to being a part of these teams for the remainder of this season and in 2019.”

Barrett said: “I’m loving my time in the Crusaders environment, it’s a healthy training environment to be a part of, with a passionate and motivated coaching group.

“The All Blacks and Crusaders teams are obviously hugely important to me and I am driven to perform at the highest level for both of them. For me personally, it’s also special to re-commit to Taranaki Rugby and connect with my home province and the place where my rugby dream started.

“I want to continue to improve my game and contribute as best I can to rugby in New Zealand.”