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Injured halfback TJ Perenara recommits to NZR after ‘tough’ year
By Finn Morton
Injured halfback TJ Perenara has officially re-signed with the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby for another two years, which will see him remain in the capital until 2025.
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As reported last week by Newshub’s Ollie Ritchie, Perenara had apparently “knocked back overseas offers” to stay in New Zealand.
But the Hurricanes officially confirmed the news on Friday morning, with the fan-favourite looking to add to his legacy after a “tough” year.
“I’m excited to re-sign with the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby,” Perenara said in a statement.
“This last year has been tough missing out through injury, so having the opportunity to come back and play for the teams that I love, was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”
Perenara ruptured his Achilles during last year’s end-of-season tour with the All Blacks.
With just a few minutes left in New Zealand’s thrilling clash with England at Twickenham, Perenara sustained the cruel injury blow.
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The halfback ended up missing the entire Super Rugby Pacific season with the Hurricanes.
In Perenara’s absence, rising star Cam Roigard made the No. 9 jersey his own at the Canes – and was rewarded with a call-up to the All Blacks.
But Perenara isn’t giving up.
The 80-Test All Black wants to return for the Hurricanes, and will continue to play an “important” role within the franchise whether the 80-Test veteran starts or not.
“TJ is a really important person within the Hurricanes,” Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee said.
“He has grown into an excellent leader and he has so much passion for the jersey and club. We are delighted that he has extended his time with us.”
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Perenara won a Super Rugby title with the Hurricanes in 2016, and has played 150 games for the franchise.
The legendary halfback is also a Rugby World Cup champion, and helped the Wellington Lions win the NPC last year.
Without a doubt, Perenara is one of the greats.
