FILE PHOTO: Rugby Union - Rugby World Cup 2023 - Pool A - France v New Zealand - Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France - September 8, 2023 New Zealand's Dalton Papali'i during the warm up before the match REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier/File Photo
(Reuters) - All Blacks loose forward Dalton Papali'i has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup, NZR said on Monday.
The 26-year-old, who has played 34 tests, also extended his contract with Super Rugby Pacific side Auckland Blues.
"Dalton is a world class loose forward who brings physicality and work rate on both sides of the ball and can play multiple positions," All Blacks Head Coach Scott Robertson said in a statement.
"He works hard every day in our environment and continues to grow as a leader and player. Having Dalton in New Zealand for the next three years is a great result.”
Papali'i said it was an easy decision to remain in New Zealand.
"I’m loving my footy right now at every level and home is where the heart is," he said.
"It’s great to have certainty about the next few years but right now my full focus is on the Rugby Championship and contributing to the All Blacks in 2024.”
New Zealand begin their Rugby Championship title defence against Argentina on Aug. 10.
(Reporting by Chiranjit Ojha in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
