New Zealand Rugby has been boosted by the news that Hurricanes scrum-half TJ Perenara has put pen to paper on a new four-year contract.
The 25-year-old’s contract with NZR will also keep him in Wellington and Hurricanes colours until at least the end of the 2021 season.
The signing is further great news for NZR and follows last week’s announcement that All Blacks loose forward Sam Cane had also inked a four-year deal.”The All Blacks will always be the goal and to be able to chase that dream for another four years here in New Zealand is a challenge I’m looking forward to,” Perenara told the All Blacks website.
“Being in Wellington and playing for the Hurricanes is a big driver for me. It’s where I grew up, it’s my home and it’s where my family is. Family means a lot and being able to be close to them and be around them is important.
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All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said: “TJ is a world-class player and a very important part of our team. He’s an incredibly competitive athlete who has taken his game to another level in recent seasons and he has a great understanding of what it means to be a Test player with close to 40 Tests under his belt.
“He plays a key role for us both on and off the park and is continuing to look to develop his all-round skills, including his leadership skills, and in fact, has now become one of the senior players in the squad. We all congratulate him on his decision which is fantastic for the future.”
Hurricanes Assistant Coach Jason Holland said Perenara was a massive part of the side’s present and future plans.
“TJ is a big part of our team culture on and off the field. His play over the past two years has been top drawer and a big driver of the club’s success. He’s an integral part of game. He’s a multiple threat with the ball in and a major driver of our defence.”