Current Crusaders captain Scott Barrett, and centurion Codie Taylor, have extended their contracts with the franchise until 2027.
It's a two-year extension on their existing contracts with commitment to their respective provincial unions for the same period – Barrett with Taranaki and Taylor with Canterbury.
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As senior All Blacks, their contract extension will also make them available for selection to represent New Zealand at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The two Crusaders have contributed hugely to the franchise since they first pulled on the colours, Barrett in 2014 and Taylor in 2013. They have been part of seven championship-winning seasons and play a big part in maintaining team culture.
Taylor has scored more than 40 tries in the red and black – the only forward on the top try scorers list, only Sevu Reece and recent Hall of Fame inductee Leon Macdonald ahead of him.
Barrett was named captain in 2020 and has held the position since. His on-field leadership has guided the team through both tough results and championship wins and he cracked his 100th game in Fiji during the team’s victorious 2023 season.
Barrett said he was “hugely grateful for the opportunity to extend”.
“I still have a lot to offer the Crusaders and I’m looking forward to contributing to the red and black jersey for the next three years,” he said.
“Of course, playing in Te Kaha and calling it our home track is certainly exciting, as is working towards the prospect and opportunity of another World Cup. There’s definitely a hunger within to go one better than last year.”
Codie Taylor said he was pleased to stick with club and country through to 2027.
“The Crusaders hold a special place in my heart. I moved to Christchurch with the goal of one day playing for this special club, and to have the career I have had to date has been amazing,” said Taylor.
“The idea of seeing out my rugby career in New Zealand and with this club was important to me and I hope I can add to the success we have had.
“The idea of playing at Te Kaha is also really exciting. Christchurch has waited a longtime for a stadium, and I can’t wait to experience the atmosphere it’ll have being under the roof.”
Crusaders head coach Rob Penney said having the experience and leadership of “two great Crusader men” would mean the team was in good hands for years to come.
“To have players like that in our environment, and to be committed to who we are and what we are trying to do, is huge for us,” said Penney.
“Scooter has been a pillar among our team for many years. People look to him for guidance and strength, and he is always there for the team. He embodies the idea of playing for each other, and we are very pleased to see him recommit to the red and black.
“Codie has been a career veteran for this team and the team in black, and we’re very lucky to have him with us for another few years. He’s a huge presence and drives us forward both on and off the field – a massive influence behind the scenes, and just so important to how we do things around here."
The Crusaders missed the Super Rugby Pacific playoffs for the first time since 2015.
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