Tri-Nations - All Blacks trio re-sign

Eurosport - Thu, 26 Feb 20:46:00 2009

Half-backs Andy Ellis, Brendon Leonard and Stephen Brett have all re-signed with the New Zealand Rugby Union until after the 2011 World Cup.

RUGBY 2008 Test New Zealand All Blacks - 0

Ellis, 25, made his All Blacks debut in 2006, while his fellow scrum-half Leonard, 23, first appeared for the national side in 2007.

The pair are the latest members of the All Blacks to commit to the union until the end of 2011, when New Zealand will host rugby's showpiece tournament for the second time.

Uncapped fly-half Brett, 23, was understudy to Daniel Carter at the Canterbury Crusaders until the All Black left for a sabbatical in France.

"We are delighted to have agreed terms with these three young players," the NZRU's Neil Sorensen said in a statement.

"They are incredible rugby talents, key players in their respective Super 14 sides and other teams, and look set to be leading players on the world stage for many years to come."

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, Carter, hookers Andrew Hore and Keven Mealamu, centres Ma'a Nonu and Richard Kahui and prop John Afoa have all also committed to the union until after the 2011 tournament.

Reuters

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  1. The All Blacks don't claim to be the best side in­ the world, they ARE the best side in the world,just­ look at their recent tour of GB and Ireland,Awesome­ rugby. I for one can't wait to see them play in­ the next world cup. Win or lose,they are the most­ exciting rugby team in the world.

    From darcy h, on Tue 14 Apr 6:54AM

  2. Tarq s , Do you watch rugby or even understand the­ game, no they have not won the world cup since 87, but­ they are number 1 team having beaten all comers last­ season. Dont say they cheat, dont blame the refs its so­ obivous they are awsome team that pulls together when­ on the pitch, no glamour boys unlik some nations. Go­ the All Blacks but let it be a great world cup

    From Andrew, on Thu 19 Mar 7:40PM

  3. So they can savour not winning it again and coming up­ with more excuses whilst still claiming to be the best­ in the world... ha ha ha

    From Tarquinius S, on Sun 15 Mar 10:51PM

  4. Brilliant blacks

    From tulip, on Thu 26 Feb 5:40PM
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