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‘Not far away’: All Black Damian McKenzie hints at decision on future
By Finn Morton
Earlier this week, Rieko Ioane became just the second All Black to commit to New Zealand Rugby through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
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The contract extension was music to the ears of the NZR board and All Blacks fans, as Ioane fended off overseas interest in the pursuit of a “legacy” in the black jersey.
But the playing futures of many world-class talents in New Zealand still remains unclear.
On a recent episode of The Breakdown, commentator Ken Laben named Damian McKenzie as the next player NZR must re-sign for another four years.
McKenzie is yet to commit to NZR beyond this year, which could trouble the All Blacks considering the news that two experienced internationals are leaving New Zealand
Beauden Barrett and Richie Mo’unga will leave a hole in the All Blacks’ playmaking stocks when they head to Japan after this year’s World Cup, but McKenzie would be an ideal replacement.
Having played 40-Test matches in the coveted black jersey, the Chiefs star has taken his game to an all-new level in Super Rugby Pacific this season.
After returning to New Zealand following a sabbatical in Japan, McKenzie has starred in the No. 10 jersey for the undefeated Chiefs – helping the team rise to first on the ladder.
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While the 27-year-old remained coy about his future, McKenzie did say that he wasn’t “far away” from making a decision.
“I’m still working through it at the moment (but I’m) not far away from sorting out my future plans,” McKenzie told SENZ The Run Home.
“That’ll be happening very shortly.
“I’m enjoying my rugby here in New Zealand, it’s great, it’s obviously nice being back.
“It’s been great so far at the Chiefs this year and it certainly helps when you’re winning which makes the week a lot more enjoyable.”
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McKenzie spent a season in Japan with Tokyo Sungoliath, before returning to New Zealand’s shores in the leadup to this year’s World Cup.
Having returned to the Chiefs this season, the utility back has taken Super Rugby Pacific by storm – and it all started with a sensational performance in round one.
McKenzie outperformed veteran playmaker Richie Mo’unga at Christchurch’s Orangetheory Stadium, as the Chiefs recorded an incredible 31-10 win over the title holders.
The 27-year-old has been sublime this season, and has played a core role in the Chiefs’ perfect start to the campaign.
Following their round two win over Moana Pasifika in Super Round, McKenzie told RugbyPass that the opportunity to stay in New Zealand was “enticing.”
“It’s definitely enticing,” McKenzie told RugbyPass.
“Obviously they’ve (Mo’unga and Barrett) paved the way as first-fives of the All Blacks the last few years.
“I guess it’s an opportunity where I’ve got to grow my game as a driver of a team and if I try to keep up the good form and get to the higher honours then that would be great.
“They’re leading the way so it’s great to learn off them, but hopefully I can also push them as well throughout the year.”
Following his player of the match performance against the Hurricanes in Wellington last weekend, McKenzie and the Chiefs turn their focus to their upcoming clash with the Fijian Drua on Friday.
