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Wellington - Halfback Piri Weepu has extended his contract with the All Blacks until the end of next year, making him available for the Rugby World Cup, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) said on Thursday.
The 44-Test veteran, missing from New Zealand's northern hemisphere tour due to a broken leg, would provide valuable experience when New Zealnd hosts the tournament, NZRU general manager of professional rugby Neil Sorensen said.
He said Weepu's contract extension also included a commitment to stay with the Wellington Hurricanes in the Super 15 competition.
"We're delighted that Piri wants to stay with us in what's going to be an exciting year for New Zealand rugby," Sorensen said.
"We certainly saw his skill and talent with the All Blacks and Hurricanes this year and we know that he is keen to get back to the international scene once he recovers from injury."
He said Weepu had been a certainty to tour with the All Blacks, who play England at Twickenham this weekend, before his injury.
