Former Wallabies star James O’Connor’s future has been confirmed with the fly-half signing a deal to join the Crusaders for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Earlier this year, O’Connor said that he would leave the Queensland Reds after the 2024 season for a “overseas opportunity.”
While many expected O’Connor to return to Europe or accept a contract in Japan, he will instead travel across the Tasman to join the Canterbury-based team.
“Legend of International Rugby”
The Crusaders announced the ex-Wallabies playmaker’s joining on Friday, marking his fourth Super Rugby squad after previously represented the Western Force, Reds, and Melbourne Rebels.
“The 34-year-old is a legend of international rugby, having 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,” according to a statement.
“He’s scored nearly 250 points for his country and has long been a stand out player both with ball in hand and behind the kicking tee.”
While O’Connor is known for his versatility, having played across the backline (excluding scrum-half) throughout his career, he will primarily play as a fly-half, competing for the jersey with Rivez Reihana and Taha Kemara while providing both on-field expertise and off-field mentorship, according to the statement.
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Head coach Rob Penney described O’Connor as a “world-class and ambitious athlete” when he announced his signing.
“When we heard he was available we reached out as we thought we could offer him something new and challenging,” Penney recounted.
“We have two young and excellent 10s in Rivez and Taha, and we believe James’ maturity will compliment them incredibly well.
“Having played internationally and in a variety of overseas competitions, we’re excited to see what James can bring to our environment after 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 on his move to the Crusaders
Before returning to Australia in 2019, O’Connor spent time in England and Europe, playing for teams such as London Irish, Toulon, and the Sale Sharks. He has played 64 times for the Wallabies, his last match coming in 2022 under Dave Rennie.
“I’m really excited to be joining the Crusaders for the 2025 season and eager to test myself in a new environment,” O’Connor told ESPN.
“Throughout my career, I have heard a lot about the Crusaders’ culture and inventiveness. So I’m extremely excited to experience it firsthand and learn a new approach to play the game.”
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