All Blacks scrum-half TJ Perenara commits to New Zealand Rugby and Hurricanes

All Blacks scrum-half TJ Perenara has put an end to the speculation of switching codes by signing a new contract with New Zealand Rugby until the end of 2023.

The 29-year-old was linked up with National Rugby League club Sydney Roosters with Perenara also expressing interest but now has committed his future to NZR.

Perenara will also return back to his Super Rugby club Hurricanes as his stint in Japan has ended following NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes' defeat in the quarter-final.

“My wife and I have decided to come back to the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby for the next two and a half years,” he said in a statement.

“We’re really excited at the journey …. really looking forward to seeing everyone back home and thanks to the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby for allowing me the opportunity to come home and do what I love.”

Perenara has played 69 Tests for the All Blacks since his international debut in 2014 and was also part of their victorious 2015 World Cup campaign. He represented Hurricanes between 2012 and 2020 and went on to win a Super Rugby title with the Wellington based club in 2016.

NZR’s general manager professional rugby & performance Chris Lendrum is delighted with Perenara committing to New Zealand.

“When TJ left for his short stint in Japan we said we’d welcome him home, so we’re delighted that he has signed a contract with us through to 2023.

“He’s been part of New Zealand rugby for more than a decade and I’m sure his Japanese experience has grown him as a person. We look forward to seeing him on his return.”