Four more years for Ioane in New Zealand
Star winger Rieko Ioane has committed to the All Blacks for four more years in a significant win for New Zealand rugby.
The 21-year-old, who has scored 18 tries from 18 Tests, was the subject of intense offshore club interest but has chosen to remain put at his Super Rugby team the Blues.
His deal is the longest of any current All Black, taking him to the end of 2022.
Ioane was last year crowned World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year and was also a nominee for the main award.
His electric pace and nose for the tryline has been a key element for the world champions, most notably on last year's tour of Europe when he single-handedly proved the difference in Test wins over Scotland and Wales.
"I want to give it my best shot at serving the black jersey and, hopefully, I'll get the chance to play at the Rugby World Cup in the future. That's a huge motivator for me," he said.
Ioane's older brother Akira, 23, has also extended his NZ Rugby contract, until 2021.
The powerful Blues No.8 is yet to be capped but played a midweek match for the All Blacks in France last November.
Both brothers are former New Zealand sevens stars who are regarded by All Blacks coach Steve Hansen as among the country's premier young players.
"With his growing maturity and growth in his game understanding, I'm sure we'll see Rieko's game go to even greater heights," Hansen said.
"Akira is also an immense talent who has a bright future in our national game and we congratulate him on his decision as well."
