Scott Barrett and Codie Taylor push to the 2027 World Cup with the All Blacks

Codie Taylor and Scott Barrett have extended their commitment to New Zealand until the 2027 World Cup, which will be held in Australia.

Hooker Codie Taylor, 33, and second row Scott Barrett, 30, have extended their commitments to their Canterbury Crusaders franchise and to the All Blacks until the 2027 World Cup, the New Zealand federation announced on Thursday rugby.

The two players, who have more than 150 caps between them, were part of the New Zealand team defeated in the World Cup final 12-11 by South Africa at the Stade de France last year.

“Having the opportunity to participate in a new World Cup cycle was a great motivation”admitted Barrett, who could be the next captain of the Blacks during the two matches against England at home next month – Sam Cane having announced that he no longer wished to occupy this role for his last international season.

“Scott is one of the most tactically astute players (…) and Codie’s dedication to his craft is evident from the moment he sets foot on the field.”, greeted Blacks coach Scott Robertson, quoted in a press release. Successor to Ian Foster, who led the Blacks until the end of the 2023 World Cup, Robertson will unveil his first selection at the end of June.