New deal for McKenzie

Editor

The Chiefs have received a significant boost with the news that back Damian McKenzie has committed himself to the team for two more years.

The 21-year-old star put pen to paper last week extending his initial two-year contract to include the 2017 and 2018 Super Rugby seasons.

At 1.75m and 80kgs, McKenzie's stature belies his on-field presence. His early form in the 2016 Super Rugby competition has been exceptional, with the full-back leading the competition in tries scored, defenders beaten, metres, points and carries.

McKenzie made his debut for the Chiefs against the Blues in February 2015 and has played 25 games to date for the two-time Super Rugby champions.

"I'm really pleased with my decision to sign on with the Chiefs for another two years. I've enjoyed the shift up to Hamilton and my time with the Chiefs. The team environment is one of a kind and the wider organisation has been very helpful with my transition and career so far," he told the Chiefs website.

"I was keen to commit to the Chiefs for longer because of the high calibre of coaching staff in Rens, Straws, KK and Barnsey. They've been awesome in helping develop my game. I'm really looking forward to the rest of the season and my future with the Chiefs."

Chiefs head coach Dave Rennie said: "We're absolutely rapt that Damian's committed here long-term. He's an impressive young man – competitive and resilient with a skillset to rival anyone in the competition. He plays with a free spirit, is courageous and is a pleasure to coach."