Newby sticks with Otago until 2008

Former All Blacks loose forward Craig Newby has renewed his contract with the Otago Rugby Football Union and the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU), committing himself until the end of 2008.

Newby, 26, captained Otago in his debut year with the province last year when he was still on loan from North Harbour, and has also captained the Highlanders.

He first played for the Highlanders as a draft player in 2002 and has been a regular member of the team since 2004.

An All Black in 2004, Newby has also played for the national sevens team and had a year with the Newcastle Falcons in England.

"Craig is both a quality player and a quality person and it's excellent news that he has committed to us until 2008," the Otago union's chief executive, Russell Gray, said today.

That was backed up by NZRU deputy chief executive Steve Tew.

"We are delighted that Craig has renewed his contract with both Otago and the NZRU," Tew said.

"He has made a significant contribution to New Zealand rugby and we look forward to his continued involvement at the top level of the game."

- NZPA