WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — Former Wallabies playmaker James O’Connor has signed to play for Christchurch-based Super Rugby team the Crusaders on a one-year contract.
The Crusaders on Friday confirmed the signing of O’Connor who has played 64 tests for Australia.
O’Connor also brings a wealth of Super Rugby experience, having played 127 matches for the Queensland Reds, Western Force and Melbourne Rebels. He also has played in England for Sale and London Irish and in France for Toulon.
O’Connor provides the Crusaders with an extra option at flyhalf in the absence of All Blacks playmaker Richie Mo’unga who currently is in Japan.
“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 said in a statement released by the Crusaders.
Crusaders head coach Rob Penney said O’Connor would provide competition in the flyhalf role along with Rivez Reihana and Taha Kemara.
“When we heard he was available, we reached out as we thought we could offer him something new and challenging,” Penney said.
“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.”
The Crusaders finished ninth in this year’s Super Rugby competition after winning the title in the previous seven seasons.
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