Cowan reveals his future plans
Tue, 16 Feb 2010 23:14
Brothers in Black: All Black scrumhalf Jimmy Cowan celebrate
Popular All Black, Highlanders and Southland scrumhalf Jimmy Cowan has re-signed with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) and Rugby Southland through until the end of 2012.
The re-signing will see the Highlanders captain play in domestic competitions for Southland and Super Rugby for the Highlanders for the next three years.
"I really enjoy playing in New Zealand, and I'm looking forward to the next few years with the All Blacks, Southland and the Highlanders," Cowan said.
Cowan, who turns 28 next month, made his All Blacks debut in 2004 and has played 32 Tests since then, including all five Tests on the 2009 end-of-year tour to Japan and Europe.
He made his Super Rugby debut in 2003, has scored seven tries and is the most capped Super Rugby player in the Highlanders team, playing his 68th game against the Crusaders in the opening round of the Super 14 at the weekend.
He has also played 92 matches for his beloved Southland province since making his debut in 2000.
NZRU CEO Steve Tew said the NZRU was extremely pleased to announce the re-signing of Cowan.
"Since his provincial debut nine years ago, he has developed into an outstanding rugby player. He is a passionate player who leads from the front, is a key player both on and off the field and we are delighted that he has made a commitment to New Zealand for the next three years."
Highlanders CEO Richard Reid said: "Jimmy is an integral part of the Highlanders set-up and we're all thrilled that he has committed to New Zealand rugby and the Highlanders for the next three years."
Rugby Southland CEO Roger Clark said Rugby Southland was "over the moon" with the re-signing of Cowan.
"The whole Southland community will ride on his coat tails as he strives for his dream of playing in the RWC 2011 at home," he said.
"Jimmy's presence in the Rugby Southland set-up has been instrumental in local players committing to the province and in no small way has played a part in the consistently good performances of the Stags in the provincial competition over the past five years.
"Jimmy's loyalty to Southland and the Stags is inspirational for a whole generation of Southland youngsters who now aspire to emulate his achievements with the Stags, Highlanders and the All Blacks."
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