All Blacks flyhalf McKenzie commits to New Zealand through to 2029

MELBOURNE - New Zealand flyhalf Damian McKenzie has extended his national contract through to the end of the 2029 season in a coup for All Blacks coach Scott Robertson.

The 29-year-old Waikato Chiefs playmaker has played 61 tests for New Zealand and was Robertsons first-choice flyhalf last year until losing the spot to Beauden Barrett.

He has an incredible skill set and the ability to change a game, said Robertson.

He is just continuing to get better and better, which makes him a critical signing for us heading into the next Rugby World Cup and beyond.

McKenzies four-year contract extension comes after a high level of interest in the speedy playmaker from overseas clubs, Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan said.

McKenzie will hope to be a part of New Zealands Rugby World Cup squad in 2027 and play against the touring British amp; Irish Lions in 2029.

Im extremely motivated to win a championship with the Chiefs and ultimately hope to be a part of a successful Rugby World Cup in 2027 and campaigns beyond that, said McKenzie. REUTERS

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