Read highest paid player under NZ Rugby

All Blacks captain Kieran Read has signed a new two‑year contract with New Zealand Rugby and the Crusaders through to the end of 2019.

The double Rugby World Cup champion and 2013 World Player of the Year has played 97 Tests for the All Blacks since making his debut in 2008, 22 as captain.

He is the most capped All Blacks No. 8 in history and the seventh‑most capped All Black of all time. He made his Super debut in 2007 and has played more than 130 times for the Crusaders.

All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said Read had developed into one of the key players in world rugby, and although in the infancy of his leadership reign with the All Blacks, was growing rapidly.

Crusaders Head Coach Scott Robertson added: "Kieran is a key member of the Crusaders, both as an exceptional player and leader, so we are thrilled to have him on board through to 2019 at least.

Read joins a number of All Blacks who have signed through to 2019 and beyond, including Sam Whitelock, All Blacks Vice‑Captain Ben Smith, Anton Lienert‑Brown, Owen Franks, Israel Dagg, Brodie Retallick, Aaron Smith, Julian Savea, Dane Coles, Sonny Bill Williams, Joe Moody, Patrick Tuipulotu, Liam Squire, Nathan Harris and Liam Coltman.

Meanwhile In Super Rugby this week, the Blues clash with the Chiefs at 7.35pm Friday, the Highlanders meet the Waratahs at 7.35pm Saturday, the Crusaders face the Rebels at 9.45pm Saturday and the Hurricanes will clash with the Bulls at 1.05am Sunday.