Playmaker Damian McKenzie will stay around in New Zealand until at least 2025 after agreeing a two-year contract with New Zealand Rugby (NZR).
The fly-half, who has also spent plenty of time at full-back, has been one of the form players in the country this season, helping the Chiefs to a nine-game winning run at the start of this season.
He was instrumental in their huge victory over defending champions Crusaders on Saturday as they claimed a 34-24 triumph in Hamilton.
Undeniable talent
Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan said: “It’s fantastic that Damian has recommitted to the Chiefs Rugby Club and New Zealand Rugby. His talent is undeniable, and everyone from sponsors, fans, players and management benefits when players of his calibre remain in New Zealand.
“Our loyal Gallagher Chiefs fans adore him, and we are a better rugby team because of him. Rugby aside – he is a genuinely good man, humble and very giving of his time.”
With Richie Mo’unga heading overseas after the Rugby World Cup and Beauden Barrett’s future uncertain, having agreed to play in Japan next year, this is a significant re-signing for NZR.
The All Blacks would have been left rather bare in the fly-half department should the 28-year-old have followed Mo’unga and Barrett abroad following the end of the global tournament.
McKenzie said: “I’m grateful to be able to continue my career here in New Zealand with the Gallagher Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby for the next two years.
“The Gallagher Chiefs have given me endless opportunities, so to sign on with this great club was a no-brainer. I love being able to represent this proud region and will continue to do so.
“We’ve got a great playing group sticking around so the next few years are going to be really exciting.”
All Blacks selection
McKenzie’s focus will now be on pressing his claim for a spot in the All Blacks squad, whether at fly-half or full-back.
The 28-year-old has arguably been the form player in Super Rugby Pacific this season and is doing all he can to force his way ahead of Mo’unga and Barrett.
“We’re delighted with Damian,” New Zealand head coach Ian Foster told Stuff. “The Chiefs have done a great job with them.
“He’s shown a lot of maturity in his decision-making. I think he would say that he’s still not the finished product, but I think he’s had a major impact on the competition.
“The thing we’re excited about is his game management. In terms of form, he’s really putting his name up for us to think hard about how we see him.”
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