All Black stalwarts recommit until 2027

All Black veterans Scott Barrett and Codie Taylor recommitted to New Zealand to the 2027 World Cup.

The Crusaders duo has committed to New Zealand Rugby through to the 2027 World Cup in a new deal that saw their existing contracts extended by a further two years.

This will see both Barrett and Taylor not just donning the famous black jersey for the All Blacks but also the red and black of the Crusaders up to the 2027 Super Rugby season. Both players have also recommitted to their respective provincial unions in the National Provincial Championship with Barrett representing Taranaki and Taylor Canterbury.

Since making his debut against Ireland in 2016, Barrett (30) has played 69 tests and racked up 117 caps for the Crusaders which he captained to four consecutive Super Rugby titles between 2020 and 2023.

"Representing my club and country has always been a privilege and to have the opportunity to put my hand up for another World Cup cycle was a big motivation," Barrett stated. "It's great to have certainty for myself, Hannah and our young son, and we're excited about the next chapter."

Taylor (33) earned 85 Test caps since making his debut against Argentina in 2015 and scored 20 tries in his career. His career includes a 2015 World Cup winners medal, seven Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders along with 134 caps for the franchise since his debut in 2013.

He states that the decision to commit to New Zealand was an easy one.

"Having the opportunity to play through another World Cup cycle and pull on the jerseys I love for a few more years is awesome. I'm grateful to New Zealand Rugby for allowing me to take a break this year as part of my last contract, and I'm feeling rejuvenated and excited about what's to come.

"My wife Lucy and I are settled in Christchurch with our young family, and it was an easy decision to remain here in New Zealand."