All Blacks and Crusaders lock in ’emerging leader’ on long-term deal

The All Blacks have received a shot in the arm with the news that highly rated front-row forward Tamaiti Williams has signed a four-year contract extension with New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the Crusaders.

His long-term commitment means the prop will further his career in his home country through both the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia and the 2029 British & Irish Lions Tour of New Zealand.

Williams first caught the eye at the end of 2018 when he was selected for the Crusaders Academy fresh out of high school.

Since then he has cemented himself as a regular in the Christchurch-based outfit’s senior team, becoming Crusader number 249 in 2021 and he revealed that he is happy in his current environment.

‘I feel like Christchurch is the best place to be’

“The Crusaders means a lot to me. I’m excited for this opportunity and I feel like Christchurch is the best place to be,” said Williams.

“Watching the Crusaders for a few years – you aspire to be in the jersey, and you think about all the people who have worn it before you – to get to put it on every week is a privilege.

“The character of this place and the people inside those four walls – not only the players but everyone involved in the franchise is what makes it special.”

The 25-year-old was the youngest member of the Maori All Blacks in 2020 and after making his All Blacks debut against the Springboks in 2023, he also represented his country at the Rugby World Cup in France later that year.

NZR general manager professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum highlighted the significance of Williams signing his new contract.

“Tamaiti has developed into a quality international front-rower in a relatively short space of time,” he said.

“But we know his potential to grow further and dominate is enormous, and we believe his best rugby is still in front of him.

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“Securing his services through to 2029, which includes the men’s British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand, is a fantastic result for all of the teams he represents and shows the passion and drive he has to contribute to those environments.

“It also highlights the appeal to our players of the exciting international calendar over the next four years.”

All Blacks forwards coach Jason Ryan echoed Lendrum’s sentiments.

“I’ve worked closely with Tamaiti for a number of years and watched his development with real pride,” he said.

‘It feels like he’s just getting started’

“He’s got an incredible work ethic, humility, and a genuine hunger to be better every day. For a player who has already achieved so much, it feels like he’s just getting started. This re-signing locks in an emerging leader and quality individual in a key position.”

Crusaders head coach Rob Penney is delighted that Williams is set to continue his career with the current Super Rugby Pacific champions.

“Having him sign through to 2029 and for the Crusaders to watch what should be the best part of his career unfold will be a great privilege,” he said.

“His world class performances on the field are obvious for everyone to see, but what might not be so obvious, is a big hearted, generous, and caring family man we get to see every day off the field. That is a critical part to the Crusaders culture and his influence in that area will be ongoing.”

Meanwhile, Canterbury Rugby chief executive Tony Smail is happy that Williams will continue to ply his trade at his union.

“We’re absolutely delighted that Tamaiti has committed through until 2029 and will continue to be a part of the Red and Black family,” he said.

“He is not only an outstanding player who has already achieved so much, but also a role model who embodies the values of Canterbury rugby. To know he will keep building on his impressive legacy here, inspiring the next generation of players and supporters, is something we’re incredibly proud of.”

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