Hurricanes fans around the world will no doubt rejoice today when they learn Julian Savea has recommitted to their team.
The 24-year-old world class wing, known as 'The Bus', is set to stay with the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby through to the end of 2019, joining a number of Hurricanes' backline players who have already re-signed with the club.
Following his 2011 debut against the Highlanders in Wellington, Savea has gone on to play 67 matches for the Hurricanes. He has accumulated 145 points in the process, making him one of the club's most prolific try-scorers of recent times.
Savea said he loved the environment within both the Hurricanes and All Blacks, and the fact there were a bunch of Hurricanes boys playing for the national team made it even better.
"For me, it was easy to make the decision. There are still a lot of things I want to achieve in New Zealand rugby and I love playing for both the Hurricanes and All Blacks. I love the jerseys, and want to continue to grow as a player and help both teams succeed and add to the legacy."
Savea said he had a lot of respect and pride for the Hurricanes, and there was no other Super Rugby team he would prefer to play for.
"I'm looking forward to carrying on with the team, and hopefully I will be able to help us achieve more of the same results we have produced so far this year."
Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd said everyone at the 'Canes was thrilled to have another local player remain with the team.
"One of our prominent focuses at the moment is to retain our own talent. The fact the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby have been able to secure his services long term, in what is a highly competitive contracting world, is great for us, and certainly shows Julian's commitment to the team as well.
"He's one of our key players, and on the back of a number of other player re-signings, he will continue to be an important part of what is a highly capable back three for the Hurricanes."
Savea joins backs Matt Proctor, Nehe Milner-Skudder, Cory Jane, Jason Woodward, James Marshall, Beauden Barrett, and TJ Perenara who will all remain at the Hurricanes next season.