Brodie Retallick and Julian Savea commit to New Zealand, stemming player exodus
Reigning World Rugby Player of the Year Brodie Retallick and free-scoring winger Julian Savea have committed to playing in New Zealand until after the 2019 World Cup, New Zealand Rugby announced on Wednesday.
Reigning World Rugby Player of the Year Brodie Retallick and free-scoring winger Julian Savea have committed to playing in New Zealand until after the 2019 World Cup, New Zealand Rugby (NZR) announced on Wednesday.
NZR chief Steve Tew described the retention of 24-year-old Savea and 23-year-old lock Retallick as “very significant” as they look to lock in key All Blacks in the face of a drain of talent to wealthy European clubs.
We know our players have choices, so to have them commit long-term to New Zealand Rugby is very pleasing
“Brodie and Julian represent a big part of the future for us and we are delighted to have them sign for four more years,” Tew said.
“We know our players have choices, so to have them commit long-term to New Zealand Rugby is very pleasing. I want to thank them both for their commitment to New Zealand.
“It’s an exciting period for rugby in this country and they will now be part of some very important events, including the revamped Super Rugby competition from next year, the British & Irish Lions Tour in 2017 and Rugby World Cup 2019.”
Retallick, who has played 36 tests since his debut in 2012, was the first tight forward in 13 years to be named the best player in the world when he took the honour last November.