As the countdown begins with less than 100 days to the start of the Super Rugby Pacific season, the Crusaders are excited to announce their 38-player squad for the 2025 competition. This year’s lineup showcases eight players receiving full-time contracts for the first time, along with a strong presence of seasoned Crusaders and All Blacks.
Fans and the club alike are preparing for an unforgettable season at Apollo Projects Stadium, which will serve as the final full season before the team transitions to the new One New Zealand Stadium in the heart of the city. Supporters are encouraged to be part of this historic farewell to a venue that has been pivotal in the team’s success, culminating in seven consecutive championships.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Rob Penney, the Crusaders aim to bounce back from a challenging 2024 season. Penney expressed optimism about the upcoming season, stating, “We’ve got a great group, and all the coaches are looking forward to getting our hands on them and preparing together here at Rugby Park. There is fantastic depth there, and a great mix of experience and youthful energy coming through.”
A significant change for the upcoming season is the decision regarding team leadership, as Scott Barrett will not be captaining the side. An announcement about his successor will be made later in the year.
The squad features exciting new additions, including veteran player James O’Connor, who brings nearly two decades of experience. Fans will also be keen to follow the performance of Kyle Preston, who recently led the Wellington Lions to victory in the Bunnings Warehouse NPC. Another key player to watch is 20-year-old Aki Tuivailala, who has shown impressive potential with Waikato in the NPC and the New Zealand U20s.
Xavier Saifoloi’s arrival in the loose forwards adds further depth, as he is set to join forces with All Blacks Ethan Blackadder and Christian Lio-Willie. The 21-year-old comes from Waikato. Additionally, several young talents, including Kershawl Sykes-Martin, Antonio Shalfoon, Seb Calder, and Fletcher Anderson, have impressed enough to earn their places in the full-time squad, showcasing the effectiveness of the Crusaders Academy talent pathway.
Fans are encouraged not to miss out on the action, as memberships are currently on sale and tickets for pre-season games are selling quickly.
In summary, the Crusaders are gearing up for an exciting 2025 season filled with new talent and the opportunity to continue their legacy at an iconic venue. With a mix of experience and youth, this could be the season where the team rises to new heights, creating lasting memories for both players and supporters.
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