All Blacks midfielder Ngani Laumape has extended his contract with New Zealand Rugby and the Hurricanes after announcing today he is staying on Kiwi shores until at least the end of 2021.
The 25-year-old has risen up the midfield ranks since making his provincial debut for Manawatu in 2016 which he later followed up with a Super Rugby debut the same year.
He then took another step in his career with his All Blacks debut a year later and has since picked up 10 Tests in the black jersey. He also has 44 Super Rugby games with the Hurricanes and 14 Mitre 10 Cup matches with the Turbos under his belt.
Laumape confirmed he had received overseas offers he could've taken up after the 2019 season but he believed the best thing for him and his family was to stay in New Zealand.
"It was a decision that I feel really happy with and it also gives me and my family security to know where we will be to at least the end of 2021," he said.
The move delighted All Blacks coach Steve Hansen who believes he has a big future in the squad.
"Ngani is part of a crop of outstanding young All Blacks who are taking their opportunities on the international stage, and we congratulate him on his decision.
"He's a talented footballer and really maturing and growing his game in the midfield position. We look forward to seeing Ngani in the All Blacks and Hurricanes jerseys for some years to come."
Hurricanes coach John Plumtree added retaining another key player was great news for the club.
"To get Ngani committed to being at the Hurricanes until 2021, so soon after Dane Coles also announced he was staying, it's more great news for us," he said.
"We believe Ngani will continue to get better. We have all seen how destructive and effective he is in the midfield for us and he is a guy who other players want to team up with."
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