Rugby: All Blacks, Chiefs midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown re-signs with NZR until end of 2026

All Blacks midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown has re-signed with NZ Rugby until the end of 2026.

Lienert-Brown, 28, has also recommitted to current Super Rugby Pacific leaders, the Chiefs, and Waikato Rugby in the NPC.

Since making his international debut against Australia in 2016, he has made 60 appearances, making him the fourth-most capped midfielder in All Blacks history.

Lienert-Brown revealed there's a sense of unfinished business when he put pen to paper to extend his stay in New Zealand.

"The constant challenge to better myself by competing against elite players was something I thought about a lot when making this decision," he said. "I feel like I've still got something to prove to myself.

"I'm excited by what we are building at the Chiefs and very proud to represent the Waikato region. 

"That, along with the love I have for the black jersey, is what motivates me to keep giving my all in New Zealand."

Lienert-Brown recently returned from injury to become the 10th Chiefs player to reach 100 games for the Super Rugby franchise.

Since debuting as an 18-year-old at Loftus Versfeld, he has become an integral part of the team, which currently sits in first place in this season's Super Rugby.

"As a recent centurion, Anton's contribution to the club speaks for itself and we are delighted he has committed for the next three years,"  Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan said.

"Hard-working, passionate, and competitor accurately describe Anton's on-field qualities. 

"Off the field, he is a great team man who cares deeply about his teammates, family, and our supporters. The generosity of his time is admired by us all."