Seasoned All Blacks prop Joe Moody is set to end his career in New Zealand after re-signing through to 2024 – a year after the Rugby World Cup.
The 33-year-old Canterbury and Crusaders loosehead’s contract extension was confirmed on Friday morning.
Test frontrowers of Moody’s calibre can command massive pay packets in Europe, but he is clearly set to buck the trend of superannuation seasons overseas to remain in New Zealand.
“It’s a bloody good footy scene here in New Zealand and I’ve got a great set up down here in Christchurch, so looking forward to getting stuck in again over the next few seasons and playing my part,’’ said Moody, who will be 36 by the end of his new contract.
Moody – 1.88m tall and 125kg – isn’t the first All Black frontrower to spurn the chance to go overseas – his 2015 World Cup winning teammates Tony Woodcock and Keven Mealamu also played all their rugby in New Zealand.
But his re-signing will give the All Blacks some breathing space as they look to develop younger loosehead options, including the Highlanders’ Southland prospect Ethan de Groot.
Moody, a former New Zealand junior wrestling representative first played for the All Blacks in 2014, having made his Super Rugby debut the year before, and his provincial debut in 2011.
A World Cup winner in 2015 after being called into the tournament as an injury replacement, Moody clocked up his 50th test against Argentina last year and is currently on 57 tests (49 starts). He has five test tries, and has also played 100 Super Rugby matches.
All Blacks head coach Ian Foster welcomed Moody’s decision.
“It’s great news having ‘Moods’ recommit for the next few years. He’s a hugely respected member of our squad and goes about his work in a quiet, understated way. We look forward to working with him in the seasons to come and I know he will be fully committed to being the best he can possibly be.”
Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson was also pleased to retain his most experienced frontrower.
“Joe is a proud 100-game Crusader who cares about this team and has been a key part of our front row for the past nine seasons. He really has set the benchmark for loosehead props worldwide and we’re grateful he’ll continue to share his expertise over the next three seasons, with our young front rowers coming through.”
Canterbury Rugby chief executive Tony Smail was also “really delighted to have Joe re-sign and continue his commitment to Canterbury Rugby. Joe’s a great, home-grown talent and great role model for everyone in our region.”
