Crusaders duo Taylor, Barrett commit to All Blacks until 2027

Veteran forwards Codie Taylor and Scott Barrett have committed to the All Blacks until the 2027 Rugby World Cup, New Zealand Rugby said on Thursday.

READ | Tributes flock in as rugby league great Rob Burrow dies from motor neurone disease

The pair, who have more than 150 Test appearances between them, have both signed contract extensions with Super Rugby side the Crusaders.

It means they will remain playing in New Zealand until the next World Cup, hosted by Australia.

Both players said they want to play at another World Cup tournament, having been in the All Blacks team that lost last year's final 12-11 to South Africa in Paris.

"To have the opportunity to put my hand up for another World Cup cycle was a big motivation," Barrett said in a statement.

The 30-year-old lock forward is a leading candidate to be named All Blacks captain for next month's two-match home series against England.

Scott Barrett and Codie Taylor signed until the end of 2027 ??#AllBlacks pic.twitter.com/kpiN1IxdGm

Sam Cane, who skippered New Zealand at last year's Rugby World Cup, has said he will not captain the All Blacks in 2024, which will be his final season of international rugby.

All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson, who will name his first squad at the end of June, welcomed the commitment shown by Taylor and Barrett.

"Scott's one of the most tactically astute players in the game... and Codie's dedication to his craft is evident every time he steps on the field," Robertson said.