All Blacks lock Josh Lord has extended his contract with the Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby until the end of 2026.
Standing at 2.03m, Lord is a dominant addition to any team’s second row - proven in his contributions to the All Blacks, Super Rugby Pacific finalist the Chiefs, and NPC title holders Taranaki.
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Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan said it was great to have the big man staying in New Zealand.
“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. 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.
“He 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.”
The 23-year-old felt he had more to give to rugby in New Zealand.
“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.”
Lord will assemble with the Chiefs in the new year following his All Blacks duties.