All Blacks flanker Cane commits to New Zealand to 2021

WELLINGTON: All Blacks loose forward and captain-in-waiting Sam Cane has committed to New Zealand rugby through to 2021.

The 25-year- old, set to play his 50th test in the All Blacks’ final Bledisloe Cup match against Australia on Saturday, wi l l also remain with Super Rugby’s Waikato Chiefs and provincial side Bay of Plenty for the next four years.

“I’ve grown up supporting all three teams and they’re teams that I love, so to re-sign was ultimately an easy decision for me, while the security of a long-term contract is great for me at this point in my career,” Cane said in a media release on Monday.

“Even though I’ve been in the All Blacks for five years now, there is still heaps more I want to achieve in the black jersey.

“I’m in a leadership role with the All Blacks and the Chiefs and that’s something I enjoy, and I want to contribute any way I can in helping lead and drive both those teams to succeed.”

Cane has been the All Blacks’ first- choice number seven since the retirement of skipper Richie McCaw after the 2015 World Cup and is widely tipped as a future captain of the side.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen hailed Cane’s loyalty to New Zealand rugby, with more lucrative opportunities generally available overseas.

“I want to congratulate Sammy on his decision. He’s grown hugely as a player since he came into the All Blacks five years ago,” said Hansen. — Reuters