Veteran prop Owen Franks signed a deal Thursday to stay with the All Blacks for the 2019 World Cup in Japan.
The 28-year-old said he rejected offers from overseas to help New Zealand defend the trophy and add to his 90-cap Test record.
"Whilst there was considerable interest internationally, I felt I wasn't ready to give up playing with the best players in the game," he said in a statement.
"I also believe that I haven't reached my full potential yet and don't want to leave until I feel I have."
Franks made his Test debut in 2009 and has missed only 15 internationals since then, becoming a mainstay in the front row for New Zealand's 2011 and 2015 World Cup wins.
Under the deal, Franks will also remain with the Canterbury Crusaders Super Rugby club.
Source: AFP
GMT 07:41 2017 Friday ,10 November
Bastareaud back as France pick four uncapped playersGMT 08:07 2017 Thursday ,02 November
World Cup winner Nehra calls it a dayGMT 15:33 2017 Wednesday ,01 November
Savea excited to face All BlacksGMT 14:05 2017 Friday ,17 February
All Blacks' legend Carter 'sorry' for drink-drivingGMT 11:55 2016 Tuesday ,08 November
All Black Crockett hails Coles' 'awesome' player of year nodMaintained and developed by Arabs Today Group SAL.
All rights reserved to Arab Today Media Group 2021 ©
Maintained and developed by Arabs Today Group SAL.
All rights reserved to Arab Today Media Group 2021 ©
Send your comments
Your comment as a visitor