New Zealand

Kaino leaning towards NZ extension

ESPN Staff

Jerome Kaino admits the 2017 Lions series holds great appeal © Getty Images Enlarge

All Blacks back-rower Jerome Kaino has hinted he may resist the overtures of European rugby clubs and remain in New Zealand for the next few years.

Kaino, who will captain the Blues in Super Rugby this season, is reportedly in the sights of European heavyweights Toulouse, Bath and Leicester, with many expecting him to follow the lead of New Zealand teammates Dan Carter and Ma'a Nonu in signing big-money overseas deals.

But the 31-year-old forward may be about to buck the recent trend, providing he can reach a suitable arrangement with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU).

"There have been a few offers put on the table but I haven't really had much time to sit down and consider it," Kaino told reporters on Tuesday afternoon. "I've spoken to the NZRU and that's where my first priorities lie. (I'm) gonna have some good conversations with them over the next few weeks and then sit down with my family and make a decision."

Kaino proved a revelation for the Blues last year after returning home to Auckland following two seasons in Japan. A move back to Asia is unlikely this time around however with Kaino saying he wants to play "competitive" rugby after overcoming the injuries that stifled the early years of his career.

"Toulouse, they're there, and a few others," he said. "I'm committed to playing competitive rugby at the moment, whether it be here, at home, or in Europe. I'm not sure if Japan fits in that category."

And the ace up New Zealand's sleeve looks to be the 2017 series against the British & Irish Lions with Kaino admitting the chance to face rugby's greatest touring side held genuine appeal. "It's huge," Kaino said of the Lions carrot. "I missed out on the 2005 series which was a big disappointment of mine, and it's always been a goal of mine to try and get my body right so I could last until 2017."

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