Veteran Black Ferns lock signs fresh extension before Lions Tour

Veteran Black Ferns lock Maiakawanakaulani Roos is sticking around for the next two years, penning an extension with New Zealand Rugby ahead of the historic British and Irish Lions Tour on Kiwi shores.

The 41-Test Black Fern has been a staple for the national side since making her debut back in 2021, scoring three tries in her international career to date.

Roos said signing an extension was important to her, as the Black Ferns and Blues environments provided her with an opportunity to begin her career.

“Representing the Black Ferns and the Blues is something I never take for granted, so I’m incredibly grateful to continue my journey with both teams for the next three years,” Roos said.

“I’ve truly grown up in these environments. They’ve played a huge role in shaping me as a person, player and leader. I’m excited to continue learning, evolving and serving the teams that have given so much to me, while doing my part to contribute to their legacies.”

Black Ferns head coach Whitney Hansen explained that Roos’ impact goes far beyond the field.

“Maia is someone who consistently puts the team first and leads from the front through her actions. She has stamped her mark as a prominent figure within the Black Ferns Tight 5 make-up, through consistent dominant performances.

“She has achieved a lot at a young age, and I’m excited about what’s ahead for her as she has the qualities to become a Black Fern who’s influence reaches far beyond the field, with the ability to connect and uplift our environment and more widely her community.”

Roos’ contract extension with NZR secures her future with the NIB Blues, something which head coach Willie Walker said was an important step for the club.

“This is a significant milestone for the club in terms of our future. Maia has been with us from the start, so to have that stability with her desire to stay with the Blues and keep growing alongside us is pretty special. She’s made a huge contribution to how our programme has grown and we are excited to see that continue.”

NZR CEO Steve Lancaster said that Roos constantly leads from the front, and her signature for the next two years shows how influential the strong international Women’s calendar is.

“Maia’s durability and consistency is testament to her dedication and work ethic. She is leading from the front for the Black Ferns and showing what’s possible in rugby in New Zealand for professional players.

“It’s great to see our women’s players making long term commitments to the game as we look forward to an exciting international calendar over the next three years.”