The deal is a major coup for New Zealand Rugby with 25-year-old Cane becoming just the second All Black to commit through to 2021.

Sam Cane, who will play his 50th Test in his next All Blacks outing, said: “I’ve grown up supporting all three teams and they’re teams that I love, so to re-sign was ultimately an easy decision for me, while the security of a long-term contract is great for me at this point in my career.

“Even though I’ve been in the All Blacks for five years now, there is so still heaps more I want to achieve in the black jersey. I’m in a leadership role with the All Blacks and the Chiefs and that’s something I enjoy, and I want to contribute any way I can in helping lead and drive both those teams to succeed.”

All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said Cane’s re-signing was significant.

"On behalf of the All Blacks, I want to congratulate Sammy on his decision. He’s grown hugely as a player since he came into the All Blacks five years ago. He's part of our leadership group, has captained the side on two occasions and he continues to play to the highest standards whenever he takes the field and never lets the jersey down.

“He's still a young man and knowing that he’s staying through to 2021 is fantastic for the long-term growth of the All Blacks and his experience and knowledge will be invaluable to the team in the years to come."