Israel Dagg extends NZ Rugby contract

All Blacks utility Israel Dagg has joined teammate Ben Smith in re-signing with New Zealand Rugby until after the 2019 World Cup.

The 61-Test All Black, who plays fullback and wing, will also remain at Christchurch-based Super Rugby side the Crusaders after New Zealand Rugby announced the three-year deal on Monday.

“There’s no doubt that there were some attractive offers to consider but at the end of the day I love my life here in New Zealand with my family, friends and teammates and I’m not ready to give that up,” Dagg said.

“I still feel blessed every time I pull on the jersey for the All Blacks, Crusaders or Magpies so I consider it an honour to be able to keep working hard to earn that right for the next three years.”

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said Dagg’s signing was excellent news.

“To have a player of Israel’s ability and versatility re-sign is a major lift for all levels of New Zealand Rugby,” Hansen said.

“To be able to plan the future knowing that we’ll have him involved makes life so much easier for us all, and we look forward to the challenges ahead.”

Smith last week extended his contract with New Zealand Rugby, the Highlanders and Otago for three years after five-eighth Aaron Cruden last month signed a lucrative three-year deal with French club Montpellier.

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