Cam Roigard and Shaun Stevenson recommit to New Zealand Rugby

In a major boost for the future of the All Blacks, fan favourites Cam Roigard and Shaun Stevenson have recommitted to New Zealand Rugby and their respective Super Rugby Pacific clubs on multi-year deals.

While the rugby world continues to watch the clock tick by ahead of the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals this weekend, both the Hurricanes and Chiefs have made major announcements that will surely bring a smile to the faces of New Zealand rugby fans.

Rising star Cam Roigard has penned a three-year extension with the Hurricanes and NZ Rugby which will see the halfback remain in the capital until the end of 2027.

The 22-year-old dynamo is currently on national duty with the All Blacks at the Rugby World Cup in France after impressing at Super Rugby Pacific level with the Hurricanes earlier this year.

With veteran TJ Perenara missing the entire season with an Achilles injury, Roigard followed in the footsteps of a giant of New Zealand rugby and more than held his own. It was a breakout campaign for the scrum-half who finished the season as the Hurricanes’ equal top try-scorer.

Roigard described the decision to sign with the Hurricanes as a “no-brainer” before revealing that he “never wanted to play anywhere else.”

“The club gave me my first opportunity at Super Rugby, and I saw this as an opportunity to repay them for opening that door,” Roigard said in a statement.

“I have loved every minute of my time here over the past couple of seasons so to be able to lock in the next few years with the Hurricanes and NZ Rugby is awesome.

“The attacking style of footy the Hurricanes play suits my game and I compliment the team as well. Being part of this group is special to me, and if this year was a taste  of what’s to come then I can’t wait to be honest.”

Roigard has been one of the standout performers at this year’s World Cup for the All Blacks. The halfback walked away with Player of the Match honours after an incredible display against Namibia in Toulouse.

The dynamic halfback has scored two tries at the sport’s showpiece event, has played a part in three try assists, and has generally impressed with a quick passing game.

“It’s a great signing for the club,” new coach Clark Laidlaw added. “Everyone can see how well he’s been playing with the All Blacks, and at the back end with the Hurricanes.

“Having someone of his calibre sign a long-term deal shows how much we think of him and how much NZ Rugby think of his future.

“To win big competitions you need world-class players in key positions, and halfback is obviously a key position.

“I haven’t had the luxury of working with Cam yet but all the coaches here talk about how competitive he is and his desire to be better. I think his best rugby is yet to come and we’re delighted he’s going to do that for the Hurricanes.”

In more good news, the Chiefs confirmed earlier this week that one of New Zealand’s form outside backs has recommitted to the club until 2025.

Shaun Stevenson has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby for a further two years, and will continue to ply his trade for the Chiefs in Super Rugby Pacific and North Harbour in the NPC.

Stevenson was a revelation for the minor premiers this season, and went on to debut in the black jersey against the Wallabies in Dunedin.

“Shaun had a fantastic season and was duly rewarded with the opportunity to wear the black jersey,” Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan said in a statement.

“He has gained a lot of confidence through consistent performances, is a seasoned professional and has that X-factor quality. His vision and anticipation, speed and long kicking game help shape defences and create opportunities to attack.

“We look forward to seeing him light it up again next season.”

Stevenson also issued a message of intent as the Chiefs announced the re-signings news, saying that there’s “unfinished business” after losing the final to the champion Crusaders.

“I’m excited to don the Gallagher Chiefs’ jersey once again in 2024,” Stevenson told the Chiefs. “There’s unfinished business to attend to. Let’s go!”