Joe Rokocoko extends New Zealand deal until end of 2011

Winger Joe Rokocoko has committed to the All Blacks for next year's World Cup on home soil, the New Zealand Rugby Union confirmed yesterday, putting an end to media speculation about his immediate playing future.

The 27-year-old, the All Blacks most capped winger with 66 Tests, has extended his national contract until the end of 2011 and will play another season for the Auckland Blues in the revamped Super rugby season next year.

"I am really enjoying my rugby here at home and keen to continue playing throughout the rest of the year and into 2011," Rokocoko said. "It's obviously going to be a massive year for New Zealand rugby next year and I want to be part of it."

Rokocoko started in six Tests this year in an injury-affected season and had been linked to a big-money move to French club Toulon with a raft of fringe players vying for his spot.

"Joe is the ultimate professional, a favourite with the fans and in his eighth year of professional rugby continues to be an outstanding rugby player," NZRU chief executive Steve Tew said.

"We are delighted that he has extended his contract through until next year."

Meanwhile, New Zealand's storied Canterbury rugby province will provide free admission to their national provincial championship match against Wellington next week in response to the earthquake that devastated the country's second-largest city of Christchurch.