Coles, Thrush commit to NZ rugby

Rookie All Blacks forwards Dane Coles and Jeremy Thrush have committed to New Zealand rugby for at least two more years.

The Wellington and Hurricanes teammates are also remaining with those teams at NPC and Super Rugby level respectively.

Hooker Coles, 26, will stay in New Zealand until the end of 2016 while lock Thrush, 28, has committed to the end of 2015.

Six-Test forward Coles made his debut against Scotland in Edinburgh in November and is regarded by All Blacks coach Steve Hansen as the successor to veteran hookers Andrew Hore and Keven Mealamu, who are both 34.

He started the first two Tests in the home series against France this month.

Thrush’s only cap came off the reserves bench in the second Test against France in Christchurch.

Both players are former New Zealand age group representatives and have played more than 50 matches at both Super Rugby and NPC level.

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