All Blacks lock inks new long-term deal with NZR and Chiefs

New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs have secured the services of Josh Lord for the next three years, where the big 2.04m lock will be on these shores to the end of the 2029 season.

The 25-year-old was born in Auckland but has made a name for himself through Taranaki at Bunnings NPC level and the Chiefs in Super Rugby Pacific, before going on to represent the All Blacks 12 times in his career to date.

Lord made his Chiefs debut in 2021, surprisingly earning his All Black debut the same year against the USA, before missing the entire 2022 season due to a serious knee injury.

Lord said it was an easy decision, as these are the teams that have allowed him to improve and grow as a rugby player.

“It’s a big few years coming up with the All Blacks, we have the South African tour, the World Cup and the Lions as well,” Lord said in a Chiefs release.

“And Hamilton, the Chiefs and Taranaki are home. This is where I’ve had the opportunity to grow and get better as a person. Four more years here is going to be good for my family and my footy.”

The lock explained how the Chiefs have continued to put faith in him despite some injuries, and how he is excited about what the future holds with this group.

“This club means a lot to me,” Lord said of the Gallagher Chiefs.

“They have shown a lot of faith in me, first as a young fella and then in the last few years when I’ve had a lot of injuries and they’ve continued that faith. It’s a team I love to play for – I love the fans and I love putting on the Chiefs jersey.

“We have a great coaching group and a superb bunch of players with some young fellas coming through, so it’s exciting to be staying here.”

Chiefs and former New Zealand U20s head coach Jono Gibbes said that Lord’s signature was crucial for the next few years.

“He is a player with a great range of skills and with his physical abilities has shown that he is comfortable at the international level. To have someone like him in our team for the upcoming seasons is exciting,” Gibbes said.

“His was an important signature for us and our region.”