Rugby: All Blacks Scott Barrett and Ryan Crotty sign new deals with New Zealand Rugby

Star Crusaders duo Scott Barrett and Ryan Crotty have joined Blues prop Ofa Tu'ungafasi in re-signing with New Zealand Rugby.

Barrett, who quickly climbed the ranks at lock in Canterbury to earn 16 tests for the All Blacks, has committed through to 2020. Midfielder Crotty, 29, committed through to the end of the 2019 season.

"I took the time to consider my options, and it was clear to me that I still want to be playing my rugby here in New Zealand," Crotty said.

"2019 will be my 11th season with the Crusaders, but I still feel as passionate and enthusiastic as I did when my career began."

As well as recommitting to NZR and the Crusaders, the pair also signed on with the respective provinces - Crotty with Canterbury and Barrett with Taranaki.

For Barrett, 24, the opportunity to continue his playing career in Christchurch through to 2020 was too good to pass up.

"I'm loving my time in the Crusaders environment, it's a healthy training environment to be a part of, with a passionate and motivated coaching group.

"The All Blacks and Crusaders teams are obviously hugely important to me and I am driven to perform at the highest level for both of them.

"For me personally, it's also special to re-commit to Taranaki Rugby and connect with my home province and the place where my rugby dream started. I want to continue to improve my game and contribute as best I can to rugby in New Zealand," Barrett said.

Ryan Crotty and Scott Barrett will remain with the Crusaders for the foreseeable future. Photo / Photosport

Earlier this week, Highlanders pair Waisake Naholo and Liam Squire signed through to 2019.

Tu'ungafasi joins utility back Damian McKenzie, halfback TJ Perenara, flanker Sam Cane and hooker Codie Taylor as All Blacks who will stick around at least two years beyond next year's World Cup in Japan.

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