Corey Flynn and Wyatt Crockett extend stay with New Zealand Rugby Union – Rugby news
On Thursday May 26, the super rugby franchise Crusaders confirmed the stay of their star prop Wyatt Crockett and hooker Corey Flynn. Club officials have confirmed the renewal of the contracts of the Crusaders’ pivotal players on their website on Thursday.
New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) is on course to retain their best after the 2011 Rugby World Cup (RWC). Earlier NZRU had expressed his concerns that a number of players were leaving abroad after the 2011 Rugby World Cup (RWC). However, following Dan Carter’s and Richie McCaw’s re-signing with NZRU they seem to have delayed the departure of key All Blacks.
Neil Sorensen, the NZRU General Manager has welcomed the players’ decisions to remain at the NZRU. He said, “It's fantastic that New Zealand can retain talent of the calibre of Wyatt and Corey. These guys are both at the top of their game and it's great to have them commit to rugby in New Zealand.”
Invercargill born Corey Flynn started his professional senior rugby career with Southland in 2002. In 2003, he joined the provincial side Canterbury and made his Super Rugby debut for Crusaders during the 2004 season.
The 30-year-old Corey so far has made 61 provincials and 95 super rugby appearances since his joining with the club.
Christchurch born Wyatt Crockett has represented the New Zealand Rugby Union under 19, Under 21 and junior teams before making his professional senior rugby club debut for Canterbury in 2005. He was part of the All Blacks Under 19 team that won the Under 19 RWC in Italy.
The 28-year-old prop, Wyatt Crockett, made his provincial debut for Canterbury against Marlborough in 2005. He has so far made 65 appearances for the provincial side.
Wyatt made his Super Rugby debut for Crusaders in the 2006 season and played his first game against the Highlanders. He has made 80 appearances in Crusaders colours and has been a regular member of their squad.
Both Crusaders hooker Corey Flynn and prop Wyatt Crockett have represented the All Blacks in 12 and 3 international games respoectively.
Crusaders head coach Todd Blackadder has welcomed their stay at the Canterbury. He said, “It's great news that Wyatt and Corey have re-committed to New Zealand and Crusaders rugby.”
Blackadder has termed both men as key players for the Crusaders and has praised their services for the club in absence of other senior players like McCaw and Carter. He said, “They are two experienced players and have a great deal to offer both on and off the field. Both Wyatt and Corey have been key players for us this season.”
NZRU has revived its hopes of fielding a strong team this year hopes to add more All Blacks to the roster.
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