All Black Sam Cane re-signs with Chiefs

Sam Cane of the Chiefs bursts through while playing against the Cheetahs earlier this year. Photo/file

Bay of Plenty's All Black Sam Cane has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs for the next two years.

The 23-year-old openside flanker has been one of the stand-out players for the Chiefs this season and this was recognized when he won three trophies at the recent 2015 Chiefs Awards.

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie said he was rapt that Cane has committed for another couple of years.

"He's an outstanding player but more importantly a quality young man, held in high regard by all. His work ethic, leadership and community mindedness continues to have a positive influence on our club," Rennie said.

Reporoa-born Cane has one of the highest tackle rates in this year's Super Rugby competition.

But Cane said he has plenty of room for improvement.

"I am really enjoying my rugby and love playing for both the Chiefs and the All Blacks. I still have a lot of things I want to achieve in New Zealand rugby. I am still relatively young and still have a lot to learn about the game and plenty of room to grow as a player," Cane said.

"It was a simple decision to stay with the Chiefs. It is an enjoyable environment to be a part of with a great bunch of men. The coaches are world class and the future is exciting for Chiefs rugby and that is something I want to play a leading role in."

THE LOWDOWN ON SAM CANE
Sam Cane
Age: 23
Height: 1.83m
Weight: 104kg
Schooling: Reporoa College, Tauranga Boys' College
Chiefs: 64 matches, debut 2011
All Blacks: 22 tests, debut 2012 v Ireland
Achievements: Two Investec Super Rugby titles, Under-20 Junior World Championship gold medal, New Zealand Rugby Age Group Player of the Year award, Bay of Plenty Junior Sportsman of the Year winner 2012.