All Blacks midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown has extended his contract with New Zealand Rugby through to the end of 2028 and has confirmed he will take a sabbatical in Japan next year.
Lienert-Brown, who has played 86 Tests and scored a try in the recent win over France in Hamilton, said this year had been a tough one due to injuries and he was pleased to secure his short-term future.
A broken collarbone suffered while playing for the Chiefs in Super Rugby Pacific meant he was out of the game for nearly three months – his comeback match was a start for the All Blacks in their 29-19 victory over France in the third Test.
“I’m excited to re-commit to New Zealand Rugby through to 2028,” Lienert-Brown, 30, said in a statement.
“This year’s been frustrating with injuries outside of my control but pulling on the black jersey again last Saturday reminded me just how special this journey really is.”
As revealed by 1News in April, Lienert-Brown will activate a sabbatical clause in his contract and play for Kobe Steelers next year.
Fellow senior All Black Ardie Savea, who captained the team in the absence of Scott Barrett during the past two Tests, has since announced he will also play a sabbatical season at Kobe next year alongside former All Black Brodie Retallick.
Leinert-Brown and Savea will return to New Zealand in time to be available for next July’s home internationals.
Fellow midfielder or wing Rieko Ioane will also take a sabbatical next year to play for Leinster with a view to returning in time to play for the All Blacks.
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson said: “Anton is a true professional and a player who embodies the values of the All Blacks jersey.
“His experience, composure, and clarity in the midfield are hugely valuable. He’s overcome injury setbacks in recent years and has shown real resilience. We’re thrilled to have him locked in through to 2028. The experience he’ll gain in Japan will only enhance his game and leadership.”
Robertson will hope Lienert-Brown returns with the same sort of form as Jordie Barrett after the midfielder’s own recent sabbatical at Leinster in Ireland.
NZR general manager professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum said: “Anton’s loyalty, work ethic and consistency have been hallmarks of his career at every level and we are delighted he has chosen to extend through to a potential third Rugby World Cup campaign.”
Chiefs head coach Jono Gibbes said: “Anton is a massive asset to the Gallagher Chiefs, and this sabbatical is a great opportunity for him to experience a different rugby environment and learn from a new playing style. I look forward to seeing how this experience shapes him as a player and what he brings back to the team.”