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 11:38 2018 Monday ,22 January
New Zealand to bowl in first T20 against PakistanGMT 13:13 2018 Friday ,19 January
New Zealand beat Pakistan by 15 runs to seal series sweepGMT 13:43 2018 Thursday ,18 January
Ben Stokes ‘delighted’ to be cleared to play for England againGMT 14:07 2017 Sunday ,24 December
'Tongan Bear' Uhila extends Clermont contractGMT 14:05 2017 Friday ,17 February
All Blacks' legend Carter 'sorry' for drink-drivingMaintained 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