All Blacks forward with ‘best years in front of him’ inks Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby extension
All Blacks flanker Samipeni Finau contests a lineout against England.
All Blacks back-row Samipeni Finau has inked a new deal with the Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby until the end of 2026, the Super Rugby Pacific side has announced.
The 25-year-old enjoyed an impressive breakout season for the Hamilton-based outfit in 2023, with his all-action style, physicality and skill set catching the eye.
Finau has played 45 games so far for the Chiefs so is within touching distance of a half-century milestone when the new Super Rugby Pacific season gets underway.
All Blacks debut last year
The blindside flanker made his New Zealand debut during last year’s Rugby Championship and started both matches against England in this year’s mid-year series.
However, he is yet to play in the 2024 Rugby Championship with Ethan Blackadder preferred at six and Wallace Sititi and Sam Cane having been on bench duty.
Finau, though, is delighted to have secured his future for the next couple of years and is looking forward to building on his game at the Chiefs in 2025 and beyond.
“I’m grateful to be extending my time with the Gallagher Chiefs. This team and its brotherhood have helped shape me into the player I am today,” Finau beamed.
“I’m thankful for the opportunities the Chiefs family has given me and can’t wait to get back into it next year!”
Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan was thrilled to keep hold of flanker Finau and has been pleased to witness his growth as a rugby player in recent campaigns.
“He has put in a lot of effort over the last few years to go from a relatively raw-boned athlete finding his feet in the professional ranks to becoming an All Black,” he said.
“As a Chief, he consistently has a positive influence on our game through his athleticism and desire for combat on both sides of the ball.
“He provides a good balance amongst our other loose forwards, and we know at his young age his best years are all in front of him.
“We are excited to be part of that journey.”
Finau will be hoping to force his way back into the All Blacks matchday squad on their trip to South Africa, with the first of two games taking place on August 31.
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