Injured Crusaders midfielder Ryan Crotty has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby for one season.
The 28-year-old suffered a leg injury in the All Blacks first Test against the Lions but will likely make a return for the Crusaders in their opening match of the Super Rugby finals against the Highlanders.
New Zealand Rugby will be pleased to get their man, however it's a curious contract length, with the reliable midfielder unwilling to commit beyond the 2018 season.
"I like to take things one year at a time and when I thought about where I could picture myself in 2018, I just didn't feel like my time here in New Zealand was up yet," Crotty said.
"I still get a thrill each time I pull on the black or red and black jerseys and I feel really motivated to perform for those teams. I genuinely think I have my best rugby in me yet and I want to play that rugby for the teams I have grown up supporting and who I feel so honoured to play for now."
Crotty has formed a dynamic partnership with both Sonny Bill Williams and Anton Lienert-Brown in the All Blacks midfield and is a key defensive cog for the side.
Like many All Blacks coming off contract in 2017 or 2018, Crotty was thought to be weighing up big money overseas offers from cashed-up French clubs.
Newshub.
