
New Zealand hooker Dane Coles signed a contract extension on Monday to keep playing for the three-time world champions until the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
Coles was part of the All Blacks side to lift the Webb Ellis trophy in 2015 and the 34-year-old said he wanted add to his 74 Test caps.
"It's a huge honour to play for that team and I never take my opportunities in the black jersey for granted," he said.
Coach Ian Foster said retaining the front-rower was "fantastic news" for his team.
"He's such an influential player in our team: he's a world-class player, an inspiration to his team-mates and we love his straightforward honesty," he said.
Coles will also remain with his Super Rugby franchise the Hurricanes.
Who else is stoked this guy is sticking around until 2023! ???????????? pic.twitter.com/5XiGUGepKk
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) April 19, 2021