All Blacks: Dane Coles re-signs with NZ Rugby on two-year deal

All Blacks and Hurricanes hooker Dane Coles has committed to playing his rugby in New Zealand through to 2021.

The 32-year-old has extended his contract with NZ Rugby (NZR) beyond this year's World Cup in Japan and will remain with the Hurricanes in Super Rugby.

"I'm happy to be staying in New Zealand and play for teams I love," said Coles. "It was an easy decision to make, and I want to be a one-club man.

"I love playing the Hurricanes and the All Blacks, and I'm happy I get to continue playing my rugby here. 

"My manager did look overseas, but it never went further than that. New Zealand came to the party which made my decision easy."

Coles has featured in 60 tests and scored 11 tries since making his international debut in 2012.

He made his long-awaited return to the All Blacks for their northern tour in November last year to Japan and Europe after a dreadful injury spell which saw him sit on the sidelines for 11 months.

Dane Coles against France.
Dane Coles against France. Photo credit: Photosport

Against France in 2017, he ruptured his Anterior Cruciate Ligament, while also battling through a calf injury and battles with concussion.

"Missing all of last year's Super Rugby season with injury made me realise just how much I missed being out there for the Hurricanes and I want more time in the jersey," he added."  

Hurricanes CEO Avin Lee is delighted Coles will remaining with the Super Rugby franchise. 

"It is really significant for us,"he said. "Dane has been a fantastic servant to this club for a long time.

"He is important to us on and off the field and we're delighted he's extended his deal with us and New Zealand Rugby." 

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said the All Blacks were delighted with Coles' decision.

"Dane is a valued member of the All Blacks group," Hansen said. "He is an important leader on and off the field and passionate advocate for the game and the All Blacks. 

"He's an important asset to any team he plays for and we're all very happy he has re-signed."

A number of current All Blacks have already committed to moves overseas after this year's World Cup. 

Ben Smith and Nehe Milner-Skudder have already announced their departures, to Pau and Toulon respectively, while All Blacks captain Kieran Read is also leaving, with reports saying a move to Japan is on the cards. 

Coles' Hurricanes teammate Matt Proctor has already announced his departure to UK club Northampton at the end of the year, while fellow All Black Ardie Savea has also re-signed with NZR through till 2021. 

Coles will captain the Hurricanes for the 2019 Super Rugby season, which gets underway next month.

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