The Chiefs have made a strong statement ahead of the new Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season by securing contract extensions for key players Simon Parker and Leroy Carter. Parker will remain with the team until 2027, while Carter has committed through to 2028. This decision comes just before the Chiefs’ opening match against the Blues, ensuring these national representatives will stay with the Hamilton-based franchise for the coming seasons.
Both players will also continue to make significant contributions to their respective teams in the National Provincial Championship (NPC), representing Northland and Bay of Plenty for the next two domestic seasons.
Leroy Carter, who previously played for the All Blacks Sevens squad, expressed his happiness in committing to the Chiefs, stating, “I don’t want to play for another club, so it was a pretty easy decision. It’s a club I grew up wanting to play for, and it’s a dream come true.” Simon Parker, the 25-year-old loose forward who debuted for the All Blacks in Buenos Aires, has made 35 appearances for the Chiefs since 2020. He shared his relief at securing his future, saying, “It’s quite nice to have some security knowing where you’re going to be for the next couple of seasons.”
Fans are eagerly anticipating the 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season, which kicks off with a series of exciting matches. The action begins on Friday with the Highlanders facing the Crusaders at 6.05pm, followed by the Waratahs taking on the Reds at 8.35pm. Saturday promises more thrilling encounters, including the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua versus Moana Pasifika at 3.35pm, the Chiefs battling the Blues at 6.05pm, and the Force hosting the Brumbies at 8.35pm.
Overall, the retention of Parker and Carter showcases a promising outlook for the Chiefs as they prepare to enhance their performance in the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific season.