New Zealand Rugby Union re-signs five talented All Blacks international players
The governing body of Rugby Union in New Zealand, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU), has announced the re-signing of five of All Blacks' players. NZRU officials made the announcement, in a
statement released on their website on Sunday, August 21.
The players who have inked another deal and agree to stay with the NZRU after the 2011 Rugby World Cup, includes Richard Kahui, Owen Franks, Isaia Toeava, Andy Ellis and Zac Guildford.
Owen Franks has signed a three-year deal while utility backs duo of Andy Ellis and winger Zac Guildford have agreed to remain with the NZRU and the Crusaders until the end of the 2013 season.
Isaia Toeava has signed a one-year deal, which will bind him with NZRU and Blues until the end of 2012 season. Whereas, Richard Kahui’s current deal will see him through until the end of the
2013 season.
NZRU Chief Executive Officer, Steve Tew, has expressed his delight on re-signing of their international players beyond the 2011 season. Earlier, following the strong recruitment drive by big
money spending European clubs, Tew expressed his concern regarding the massive flight of a number of star players.
Commenting on the occasion, Tew added, “We always knew that it was critical to retain as many All Blacks as possible post-Rugby World Cup 2011 to ensure continuity for both the franchises and
the national team.”
Tew added that they have worked hard to retain players and thanked the staff of the local union clubs for their support in this regard.
Crusaders head Coach, Todd Blackadder, has expressed his delight on retaining the services of the Owen, Andy and Zac. He said, “We’re stoked that Owen, Andy and Zac have all committed to continue
their rugby with the Crusaders. Retaining these guys gives us a great boost as we look toward our 2012 campaign both on and off the field.”
Commenting on Toeava’s re-signing; Blues head coach Pat Lam said, “Isaia is a dynamic player who just keeps on getting better. He is a strong voice in our backline and his impact is massive.”
Chiefs CEO, Gary Dawson, has expressed his thrill on re-signing of the Kahui. He said, “We’re thrilled Richard has re-signed. He’s a world class player who has demonstrated tremendous commitment
and loyalty to New Zealand rugby and the Chiefs.”
The addition of the five players have strengthened the All Blacks resources after the 2011 Rugby World Cup campaign. Other players who have already signed their respective deals with the NZRU
includes the likes of All Blacks back row forward and captain Richie McCaw and their star fly half Daniel Carter.
The hookers' quartet of Keven Mealamu, Andrew h**e, Hikawera Elliot and Corey Flynn has also agreed to extend their stay with the NZRU. Other players of the forwards pack, who have re-signed
with NZRU includes the likes of Tony Woodcock, Ben Franks, Wyatt Crockett, Ali Williams, Anthony Boric, Tom Donnelly, Jarrad Hoeata, Samuel Whitelock, Jerome Kaino, Kieran Read, Adam Thomson, Daniel Braid, Liam Messam, and Victor Vito.
In backs the likes of Piri Weepu, Jimmy Cowan, Ma’a Nonu, Alby Mathewson, Colin Slade, Conrad Smith, Benson Stanley, Ben Smith, Aaron Cruden, Israel Dagg, and Rene Ranger, have also agreed
to remain with NZRU.
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