Sporting Digest: Rugby Union

The All Black Christian Cullen has renegotiated his contract with the New Zealand Rugby Football Union and will play on after next month's World Cup in the United Kingdom. The NZRFU said yesterday that Cullen would play for New Zealand "at least" until the end of 2001. Cullen said: "It's great to know that my rugby future is mapped out for the next couple of years".

The New Zealand Maori team, who have recorded 21 consecutive victories, were officially recognised as the country's third senior team behind the All Blacks and New Zealand A. "We recognise the Maori team remains a unique and significant team that is reflective of New Zealand's identity," NZRFU chief executive David Moffett said yesterday.