Source: Radio New Zealand
Will Jordan celebrates with Cortez Ratima after scoring. Wallabies v New Zealand All Blacks, 2024 Rugby Championship and Bledisloe Cup test match, Accor Stadium, NSW, Australia, Saturday 21st September 2024, Copyright David Neilson / www.photosport.nz David Neilson/Photosport
All Blacks halfback Cortez Ratima has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs to the end of 2028.
The 24-year-old said it was an easy decision, especially after the recent birth of his second son.
“I have a new baby at home and being in one place and having a stable home life is good for our family,” Ratima said.
“I love this club and how they have supported me and my family. I’m loving what [Chiefs coach] Jono [Gibbes] and the other coaches are doing and there’s no place I’d rather be.”
Cortez Ratima of New Zealand All Blacks during series against England, 2024. PHOTOSPORT
Ratima has played 38 games for Waikato and 60 for the Chiefs since his Super Rugby debut against the Crusaders in 2022.
He has played 21 tests since making his All Blacks debut against England in 2024.
Ratima said with the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia getting closer, competing for a place in the All Blacks was a huge motivator.
Gibbes was delighted Ratima was staying with the side.
“It’s great to have a player of Cortez’ ability stick with us. It shows his faith in what we are doing and where we are heading, which is terrific. It’s also a reflection on the culture we have here at the club.
“Cortez is a talented young man and it is exciting to know he and his whānau will be a part of the Chiefs for another three years, at least.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
