The Crusaders have announced the signing of former Wallabies first-five James O’Connor ahead of the 2025 Super Rugby season.
O'Connor has officially signed on a one-year deal, after it was reported earlier this week that the Christchurch-based franchise were in talks with the player.
The 34-year-old has played 64 Tests for Australia and earned more than 120 Super Rugby caps for the Western Force, the Melbourne Rebels and most recently the Queensland Reds.
“I’m really excited to be joining the Crusaders for the 2025 season and eager to test myself in a new environment,” O’Connor said.
“My whole career I’ve heard so much about the Crusaders culture and innovation. So to experience it first hand and learn a new way of playing the game is something I’m really looking forward to.”
O'Connor made his Super Rugby debut for the Force in 2008, becoming the comps youngest ever debutant at the age of 17. He went on to become the second youngest Wallaby in history at the age of 18.
Crusaders head coach Rob Penney said O’Connor is a “world-class and ambitious athlete”.
“When we heard he was available we reached out as we thought we could offer him something new and challenging,” he said.
O'Connor brings invaluable experience to the Crusaders squad, and will be used to guide Rivez Reihana, 24, and Taha Kemara, 21, in the first-five role.
“We have two exciting and talented 10s in Rivez and Taha, and James brings a level of maturity that we believe will complement them exceptionally well," Penney said.
“Having played internationally and in a range of overseas competitions, we’re looking forward to what James can bring to our environment from his 17 seasons of professional football.
“He’s also a competitor and ambitious, which will ensure there is weekly competition for the 10 jersey.”
O’Connor will join the Crusaders shortly before their first pre-season game which is yet to be confirmed.
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