1
Dane Coles decides post-World Cup playing future
By Online Editors
Despite being linked to a move overseas by French media outlet RugbyRama, All Blacks hooker and Hurricanes captain Dane Coles has confirmed he is staying in New Zealand after extending his contract through to 2021.
RugbyRama reported that Coles was expected to emulate Ben Smith and All Blacks captain Kieran Read in heading overseas.
Coles' recommitment means New Zealand Rugby and the Hurricanes can continue to rely on his outstanding leadership, skill and experience for the next three years.
The 2015 Rugby World Cup winner, who led the Hurricanes to the club's first Investec Super Rugby title a year later, said he was committed to continuing his career in New Zealand.
"I still feel like there are things that I want to achieve in New Zealand with teams that mean a lot to me," Coles said.
"Missing all of last year's Super Rugby season with injury made me realise just how much I missed being out there for the Hurricanes and I want more time in the jersey."
"It's fantastic for everyone here that Dane will continue to lead us and be as influential as he is," he said.
"You can never underestimate just how much he has to offer with his experience and just how much respect he has within our squad and within our coaching group."
Hurricanes chief executive Avan Lee said it was incredibly positive to see Coles continue in the game in New Zealand.
"I know Dane would not like a fuss made of it but I think it is significant that a player of his calibre and standing will be here for an extended period. We are delighted and I know our members and fans will be too."
Rugby World Cup City Guides - Oita:
Trending on RugbyPass
2
All Blacks XV player ratings vs Munster
3
Suaalii strikes awe as Wallabies lose midfielder
4
Scott Robertson responds about handling errors
5
Latest Comments
The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
Go to comments