Perenara to stick with NZ Rugby, Hurricanes
All Blacks halfback signs 21⁄2 year deal
All Blacks halfback TJ Perenara has re-committed to New Zealand Rugby and the Hurricanes despite being linked with a code switch to the NRL.
The deal runs through until the completion of the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
Stories emerged last month that Perenara was being considered as a shock replacement for Roosters captain and hooker Jake Friend who was forced into retirement after just one game of the 2021 season because of ongoing concussion issues.
But the unlikely experiment has ended long before it could begin with NZ Rugby confirming last night that the 2015 Rugby World Cup winner has signed a new two-year deal to remain in New Zealand with the Hurricanes.
Perenara, a 69-test All Black who made his debut in 2014, also confirmed the move on social media.
‘‘My wife and I have decided to come back to the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby for the next two and a half years. We’re really excited at the journey ... really looking forward to seeing everyone back home and thanks to the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby for allowing me the opportunity to come home and do what I love.’’
Perenara’s current contract with NZR runs through until the end of the year but he has been playing for the NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes in Japan’s Top League competition under sabbatical.
That stint came to an end following the NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes quarterfinal loss at the weekend and Perenara’s return to New Zealand is imminent.
The new deal keeps the 29-yearold under contract until the end of the 2023 season, taking in the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
NZR’s general manager professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum has welcomed Perenara’s decision.
‘‘When TJ left for his short stint in Japan we said we’d welcome him home, so we’re delighted that he has signed a contract with us through to 2023. He’s been part of New Zealand rugby for more than a decade and I’m sure his Japanese experience has grown him as a person. We look forward to seeing him on his return.’’
Hurricanes chief executive Avan Lee was understandably excited to have one of the club’s most senior players back for the next two seasons.
‘‘We’re delighted TJ is coming home. TJ is 100 per cent committed to the Canes and what we want to achieve, so this is a really good day for our team, the organisation, our fans and our key stakeholders.’’
Perenara is the most capped Hurricane and has played 140 games for the Wellington-based franchise since making his Super Rugby debut in 2012.