Crusaders assistant coach and ex-All Blacks assistant Brad Mooar has taken on the head coach role for the Fijian Drua ahead of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
In a statement released by Mooar and the Crusaders, he said he would continue to support the Kiwi team from afar.
"The relationships I've built here won't change, and I look forward to watching the Crusaders continue to thrive while staying connected to the club in the years ahead."
Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge echoed the fond sentiment by wishing Mooar and the Druar well.
Mooar spent six non-consecutive seasons with the Crusaders, winning four championships with the team.
He rejoined the Crusaders before the 2025 season, having lost his assistant role with the All Blacks in 2022.
He likely applied for the club's head coaching role once Rob Penney confirmed his departure. The job went to Scott Hansen.
This isn't Mooar's first foray into overseas coaching, having previously worked in South Africa, Wales and Scotland.
Mooar will stay with the Crusaders in the coming weeks until transition plans have been worked through and a replacement found.
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