All Blacks flanker Dalton Papali’i during the second test against England in Auckland. Photo: Photosport
All Blacks flanker Dalton Papali'i has extended his contract with New Zealand Rugby and the Blues until the end of 2027.
The 26-year-old has also recommitted to his NPC side Counties-Manukau for the same period and is the latest current test player to set his sights on the Rugby World Cup in Australia in three years' time.
Papali'i has played 34 tests since making his All Blacks debut as a 21-year-old against Japan in 2018 and has served largely as an openside backup for former skipper Sam Cane, before lining up as potentially coach Scott Robertson's first-choice in the No.7 jersey this year.
All Black Dalton Papali'i scores a try during the Autumn Nations Series International rugby union match between England and New Zealand at Twickenham. Photo: AFP / Ian Kington
Papali'i was solid in the two home wins over England in July, coming off the back of a strong campaign with the Super Rugby Pacific champion Blues, where he shared the captaincy with Patrick Tuipulotu.
"I'm loving my footy right now at every level and home is where the heart is, so it was an easy decision to remain in New Zealand and run it back with the Blues next year," Papali'l said in a New Zealand Rugby statement.
"It's great to have certainty about the next few years but right now my full focus is on the Rugby Championship and contributing to the All Blacks in 2024."
Robertson said Papali'i's retention was important for the All Blacks.
"Dalton is a world class loose forward who brings physicality and work rate on both sides of the ball and can play multiple positions," he said.
"He works hard every day in our environment and continues to grow as a leader and player. Having Dalton in New Zealand for the next three years is a great result."
Blues general manager of rugby Murray Williams said securing Papali'i was a big win for the club.
"Dalton's a key cog in our planning over the coming seasons for the Blues, it's great to have him locked in until the end of 2027. He's a top man to have around the club and we have no doubt he'll continue to be the premier openside flanker in New Zealand over the next couple of campaigns."
Blues loose forward Dalton Papali'i scores the opening try during the Super Rugby Pacific Quarter Final. Photo: Photosport
Blues head coach Vern Cotter was impressed by Papali'i throughout the title-winning campaign.
"I've really loved Dalt's work this year, he was a great contributor to the success of this season. It's great for the Blues that he's signed on for another couple of seasons and I look forward to working with him again next year."