Watch: Steve Hansen thrilled over Black Ferns deal – 'It's exciting for women's rugby'

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen is welcoming news of central contracts for New Zealand's top female players, allowing the Black Ferns to finally become professionals.

With New Zealand Rugby and the Players' Association close to a deal to see our Black Ferns contracted to the organisation, Hansen spoke highly of the move that will only strengthen the game in New Zealand.

"I think it's exciting for women's rugby," he said.

"Men's rugby had to wait over 100 years to go professional, it was inevitable that it was going to happen for women's rugby."

"The sooner the better."

"It'll create a pathway for a lot of our young ladies and young girls who may want to choose to play the sport."

"It's exciting."