The New Zealand Rugby Federation (NZR) has announced that New Zealand fullback or opener Damien McKenzie (27, 40 caps) has signed a new contract with the All Blacks until the end of 2023, following a season spent with the Japanese Santori Sangoliat franchise. Friday.

McKenzie, who soon joined the Hamilton-based New Zealand franchise Waikato Chief (Super Rugby), has already worn the jersey 95 times, and in fact the All Blacks will qualify again in anticipation of the 2023 World Cup in France.

However, he will miss the next three Tests in the New Zealand selection against Ireland in July, with coach Ian Foster already named in the 36 All-Blacks group.

⁇This is a positive for New Zealand rugby every time a player with Damien’s quality and experience returns to the country, and brings a lot to the team he represents.Chris Lendrum, director general of the federation, confirmed this in a press release issued by the NZR.

McKenzie, who trained in Christchurch, made his All Blacks debut in 2016.I really enjoyed my time in Japan (…) and look forward to being back on the field and reconnecting with my teammates and coaches in New Zealand. I’m a fan of Waikato Chiefs and All Blacks, and if I’m lucky enough to wear one of these shirts again I will give it my all“, Underlined on the part of the player.

The first Test against Ireland will be played on July 2 in Eden Park, Auckland, a week after the second meeting in Dunedin and the final on July 16 in Wellington. Ireland overcame the All Blacks (29-20) in Dublin in November to win three of the last five matches they have played, but have never won 12 of the three matches on New Zealand soil.