New Zealand international Shannon Frizell pens new Highlanders deal
Shannon Frizell made his Highlanders debut in 2018
©PA
Highlanders have confirmed that All Blacks back-row Shannon Frizell has penned a new deal with the club at least until the end of the 2023 season.
Frizell started his professional rugby debut with Mitre 10 Cup side Tasman in 2016 with his Super Rugby debut for Highlanders coming two years later.
Since then, the 27-year-old has gone on to make 44 appearances for Highlanders scoring 17 tries with his consistent domestic performances earning him New Zealand debut during the 2018 June series against France. He also featured in four Tests for the All Blacks in the 2019 World Cup and overall has played 13 games at the international arena including last year's Rugby Championship tournament.
“I have enjoyed my time here, I like Dunedin and the culture of the team, it seems to get the best out of me," he told in a statement released by the club.
"I want the Highlanders to do well, if I can help the team by playing well, then I’m happy”.
Frizell's signing follows after Aaron Smith, Folau Fakatava, Mitch Hunt and Pari Pari Parkinson also committed their future to the club.
“Shannon has been a standout player for us since his first game for the club. His work rate and the physical commitment he offers on attack and defence are world class, his consistent form this year has him right up there as the best in the country at blindside” said Highlanders head coach Tony Brown.
“We are of course delighted that Shannon has decided to stay with us for the next few seasons to help us reach our goals, he holds a lot of mana amongst the team and his commitment to the club is good for our future”.
Highlanders are positioned third in the Super Rugby Aotearoa table with two wins from five games and will face Chiefs in the seventh round at Forsyth Barr Stadium on 10th April.
