Centre Conrad Smith and flanker Jerome Kaino are among six players who have pledged their future to the All Blacks until the end of 2012, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) said on Wednesday.
Second-row forwards Tom Donnelly, Sam Whitelock and Anthony Boric as well as prop Ben Franks were the other All Blacks to sign new deals with the NZRU that will keep them playing in New Zealand after next year's hosting of the World Cup.
‘We have now moved our focus beyond 2011 and the All Blacks and franchise coaches regard these players as very important members of their respective teams so it's great that they have recommitted to New Zealand rugby,’ NZRU chief Steve Tew said in a news release.
‘We feel that we have got a fantastic professional rugby environment in New Zealand and many of our players agree. Having said that, we still work very hard to ensure that continues.’
Barring Boric, the players are all in the All Blacks squad to face Australia in the Tri-Nations this weekend, where New Zealand could wrap up the title.
Hard-running, hard-hitting blindside flanker Kaino, 27, will be playing his 31st test in Christchurch at the weekend.
Smith, who will continue his centre partnership with Ma'a Nonu in his 39th test on Saturday, said he was delighted to commit himself to continuing to playing all levels of rugby in New Zealand .
‘New Zealand is home and I love playing rugby here,’ the 28-year-old said. ‘I'm proud to play for Wellington, the Hurricanes and the All Blacks, and I'm looking forward to a few more years of professional rugby.’
