The forward for the All Blacks has his “best years ahead of him.” seals extension between New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs.
The Chiefs and New Zealand Rugby have announced that All Blacks back-row Samipeni Finau has signed a new contract that will last until the end of 2026. Finau plays for Super Rugby Pacific. The 25-year-old’s all-action style, physicality, and skill set caught people’s attention during his stellar debut season for the Hamilton-based team in 2023. With 45 games played for the Chiefs thus far, Finau is very close to reaching his 50th birthday when the 2019 Super Rugby Pacific season begins.
All Blacks made their debut the previous year. In the mid-year series this year, the blindside flanker started both of New Zealand’s matches against England after making his debut at the Rugby Championship the previous year. He hasn’t yet participated in the 2024 Rugby Championship, though, as Sam Cane and Wallace Sititi have been on the bench and Ethan Blackadder is favoured at number six. Finau, nevertheless, is happy to have his future set for the next few years and is eager to continue improving at the Chiefs through 2025 and beyond.
“I’m appreciative that I get to stay on with the Gallagher Chiefs longer. Finau beamingly said, “This team and its brotherhood have helped shape me into the player I am today.” “I’m appreciative of the chances the Chiefs family has provided for me and am eager to participate again next year!” The flanker Finau was excited to stay with the Chiefs, and head coach Clayton McMillan has been happy to see him improve as a rugby player in recent seasons.
“In the past few years, he has worked extremely hard to transform from a fairly raw athlete trying to make it in the professional ranks to an All Black,” he remarked. “With his athleticism and passion for combat on both sides of the ball, he continuously improves our game as a Chief.
“He gives our other free forwards a nice counterbalance, and even at his young age, we know his finest years are still ahead of him. “We are thrilled to accompany you on that journey.” With the first of two games scheduled on August 31, Finau will be looking to push his way back into the All Blacks matchday squad during their trip to South Africa.