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Blues duo Papalii, Tuipulotu commit to All Blacks, sign new NZR deals

March 28, 2019
Dalton Papalii of the Blues scores a try in the game between the Wild Knights and the Blues during the Global Tens Tournament at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Australia on February 09, 2018. Photo : Tertius Pickard / www.photosport.nz

The All Blacks and Blues have been bolstered by two more players re-committing to stay in New Zealand, with forwards duo Patrick Tuipulotu and Dalton Papalii re-signing with NZR.

Papalii, 21, is widely considered among the brightest prospects in New Zealand Rugby, having made his All Blacks debut on last year's end of year tour after a breakthrough season with the Blues, signing through until 2022.

Blues captain Tuipulotu, 26, meanwhile has put pen to paper on a new deal with NZR, staying put until the end of 2020 - looking to add to his 21 Test caps with the All Blacks.

In a statement, All Blacks coach Steve Hansen welcomed the pair's commitment to staying with the Auckland Super Rugby side.

"It's great news for the Blues and for us that both Paddy and Dalton have re-signed with New Zealand Rugby," Hansen said.

Blues Patrick Tuipulotu runs past TJ Perenara

"Patrick has been in our environment for several years now and has all the natural attributes required to keep developing into a truly international lock. He has speed and agility for a big man and is strong in his core roles.

"Dalton has shown us all just what kind of impact he has on a game. He brings size to the loose forward role and also a huge workrate to his game, especially on defence and in the breakdown.

"He has a huge future in our game which is exciting and we congratulate him and Paddy on their commitment to New Zealand Rugby."
 

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