Veteran All Black Aaron Smith has decided to keep his talent on Kiwi shores after signing a new two-year deal with New Zealand Rugby and the Highlanders.
The 82-Test halfback made the announcement this morning, saying he was excited to confirm his future.
"From my earliest playing days, my focus has always been about being passionate about the teams I play for and I’ve always enjoyed giving 100% to the teams I represent," Smith said.
"I love representing the Highlanders and the All Blacks and playing my rugby in New Zealand gives me the chance to continue to do that.
"I’m grateful to NZ Rugby and the Highlanders organisation for all the support they’ve given me over my career and for the opportunities they have provided for myself and Teagan, going forward."
It's a big win for the All Blacks and New Zealand rugby, who are currently battling to keep some of the nation's top talent from signing big deals overseas after the World Cup.
NZR CEO Steve Tew said Smith's signing is a major coup for them.
"We’re delighted to have re-signed Aaron through to 2021. He’s a proven world-class player, the most capped All Blacks halfback ever and an incredibly important member of the All Blacks and Highlanders.
"New Zealand Rugby has been working incredibly hard on the retention of our key players and, while it’s inevitable that some will move on following the Rugby World Cup, we’ll still have a core of experience in the All Blacks post 2019, and Aaron will be a key part of that group.
"We know all our players have choices to make on where they play their rugby and that the global environment is challenging, but we feel we have got one of the best environments for players here, with outstanding teams and coaches, and so we congratulate Aaron on his decision."
Smith debuted for the All Blacks in 2012 having made his debut for the Highlanders one year earlier - he's since played 129 times for the southern Super Rugby franchise.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said Smith's new deal is "fantastic news".
"Nuggy has been such an outstanding player for us over many years and deserves every accolade he gets.
"He's a passionate team man, a leader in our team and gives his all to the group. He works incredibly hard on his game and has been incredibly consistent since first coming into the All Blacks. The speed of his delivery from the base of the scrum and ruck is a key point of difference and means we can play the game at real pace, which has suited our game.
"It’s fantastic news that he has committed himself to both New Zealand Rugby and the Highlanders and we congratulate him on his decision. It’s also timely to congratulate him and his partner Teagan on their recent engagement and the pending birth of their first child."
Smith became the All Blacks' most-capped halfback last year when he overtook Justin Marshall during the End of Year tour.
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