All Blacks centre Anton Lienert-Brown has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby through to 2026. Lienert-Brown has also recomitted his future with provincial club Waikato, and the Chiefs in Super Rugby. The 28-year-old recently completed his century of Chiefs caps and commits his long term future to the Hamilton club.
Lienert-Brown has played 60 tests for the All Blacks since his international debut in 2016. He is the All Blacks’ fourth most-capped centre behind Tana Umaga (74), Conrad Smith (94) and Ma’a Nonu (103). Lienert-Brown spoke to Stuff.co.nz about the contract extensions.
“The constant challenge to better myself by competing against elite players was something I thought about a lot when making this decision,” Lienert-Brown said in a statement.
“I feel like I’ve still got something to prove to myself.
“I’m excited by what we are building at the Chiefs Rugby Club and very proud to represent the Waikato region. That, along with the love I have for the black jersey, is what motivates me to keep giving my all in New Zealand.”
Despite missing the beginning of the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific season with a shoulder injury, Lienert-Brown has returned to full fitness ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup. He has ambitions of getting on the plane to France, as the All Blacks look to reclaim the title they won back-to-back in 2011 and 2015.
“To have Anton recommit to the All Blacks is fantastic. His experience and contribution is of the highest quality,” All Blacks coach Ian Foster said in a statement. Lienert-Brown made his Chiefs debut on the wing, against the Bulls in 2014, before moving in-field to centre.
“As a recent centurion, Anton’s contribution to the club speaks for itself and we are delighted he has committed for the next three years,” Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan said in a statement.
“Hardworking, passionate and competitor accurately describe Anton’s on-field qualities. Off the field he is a great team man who cares deeply about his team-mates, family and our supporters. The generosity of his time is admired by us all.”