Six players have signed new contracts with the NZRU (New Zealand Rugby Union) and have pledged their immediate future to the All-Blacks until 2012.
Flanker Jerome Kaino, centre Conrad Smith (pictured), prop Ben Franks and second-row forwards Anthony Boric, Tom Donnelly and Sam Whitelock are the New Zealanders who have committed themselves to the national team.
“New Zealand is home and I love playing rugby here,†Conrad Smith said. “I’m proud to play for Wellington, the Hurricanes and the All Blacks, and I’m looking forward to a few more years of professional rugby.â€
“We have now moved our focus beyond 2011 and the All Blacks and franchise coaches regard these players as very important members of their respective teams so it’s great that they have recommitted to New Zealand rugby,†NZRU’s Steve Tew added.
“We feel that we have got a fantastic professional rugby environment in New Zealand and many of our players agree. Having said that, we still work very hard to ensure that continues.â€
