Scott Barrett signs new deal with New Zealand and Crusaders until 2023

All Blacks lock Scott Barrett has pledged his immediate future with New Zealand and Crusaders after signing a deal until 2023.

Barrett has been with Crusaders since his professional rugby debut in 2014 and took over the captaincy of the side this year replacing Sam Whitelock and guided them to the top of the New Zealand Conference in the Super Rugby season when it was suspended following the pandemic coronavirus.

He will also be leading Crusaders in the upcoming Super Rugby Aotearoa that kicks-off next month with the club's opening game scheduled against Hurricanes on 21st June in Wellington.

The 26-year-old's consistent performances in the domestic circuit led him make his All Blacks debut in 2016 where he joined his brothers Beauden and Jordie in the international arena and has featured in 36 Tests with his last appearance coming during the World Cup in Japan last year.

New Zealand head coach Ian Foster welcomed Barrett's decision to stay committed to New Zealand.

“This is massive news for New Zealand Rugby and the All Blacks," said Foster.

"Scott has already made an outstanding contribution to the team since making his debut back in 2016 and we know the best is yet to come. It’s really exciting for the future having him re-signed".