All Blacks and Chiefs forward backed to ‘thrive’ following contract extension
Josh Lord has penned a new deal with New Zealand Rugby
All Blacks lock Josh Lord has penned a new deal with the Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby to keep him in Waikato until 2026.
The towering forward made his All Blacks debut in 2021, and has won a further four caps for his country. He also featured in their Rugby Championship opener against Argentina on Saturday, coming off the bench.
Commenting on the new deal, the Chiefs second-row said: “Grateful to re-sign with the mana. They’ve shown a lot of faith in me and I look forward to repaying their faith in the next few years.”
“We’ve got no doubt he will thrive”
The 23-year-old made his professional debut in the NPC for Taranaki, before joining the Chiefs for the Super Rugby Aotearoa campaign in 2020.
After some impressive early showings for the Chiefs, he was drafted into the All Blacks squad for their tour of the Northern Hemisphere, making his debut in the mammoth 104-14 win over the USA. He later made his full debut two weeks later as he started against Italy.
Injuries have plagued him since, though. He suffered a ruptured ACL in 2022, and has struggled with other issues since.
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Despite his setbacks, Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan believes his best rugby is still to come following his return to the All Blacks squad this Rugby Championship.
“Josh has been an important part of our team for several seasons now, and we are ecstatic he has committed to the club for another two years,” he said.
“A player with his profile and skill set is pretty hard to secure, and he will no doubt play a significant role in our future aspirations.”
McMillan added: “Josh has been unfortunate with injury, something not uncommon for big athletic young men, growing into their body and becoming accustomed to the physical demands of his position. But Josh has always taken setbacks in his stride, been diligent in his rehab, and we are now seeing him back fit and healthy.”
“We are stoked to see him back with the All Blacks – we’ve got no doubt he will thrive and make his presence felt.”
Lord only featured three times for the Chiefs during the 2024 Super Rugby season, but returned to fitness in time to make the All Blacks squad for the Rugby Championship.
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