All Blacks loose forward Shannon Frizell will stay in New Zealand after re-signing with the Highlanders through to the end of 2023.
The 2019 Highlanders player of the year has established himself as the first-choice blindside flanker for the All Blacks and a strong ball carrier, crossing for 17 tries for the 'Landers.
The re-signing of Frizell is a massive coup for the southerners as they look to build a squad capable of picking up their second Super Rugby title.
"Shannon [Frizell] has been a standout player for us since his first game for the club," Highlanders coach Tony Brown says. "His work rate and the physical commitment he offers on attack and defence are world class, his consistent form this year has him right up there as the best in the country at blindside."
"We are of course delighted that Shannon has decided to stay with us for the next few seasons to help us reach our goals, he holds a lot of mana amongst the team and his commitment to the club is good for our future."
The 27-year-old has played 44 games for the Highlanders and after a standout rookie year, he was selected for the All Blacks where he made his debut against France at his home ground.
Frizell has gone on to make 13 appearances for the All Blacks since 2018 including three games at the 2019 World Cup in Japan.
"I have enjoyed my time here, I like Dunedin and the culture of the team, it seems to get the best out of me," Frizell says. "I want the Highlanders to do well, if I can help the team by playing well, then I'm happy."
Frizell is another high profile signing for the southerners following on from Aaron Smith, Folau Fakatava, Mitch Hunt and Pari Pari Parkinson.
Join Newshub for live updates of the Chiefs v Highlanders Super Rugby Aotearoa clash from 7:05pm Saturday
