Former Wallabies fly-half James O’Connor has signed with the Crusaders for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season. The 34-year-old has played 64 international tests for Australia and has accumulated over 120 Super Rugby caps with teams such as the Western Force, Melbourne Rebels, and most recently, the Queensland Reds. He has scored nearly 250 points for his national team.
As a versatile back, O’Connor will join the Crusaders as a fly-half, taking on the role alongside Rivez Reihana and Taha Kemara. The Canterbury-based franchise hopes to benefit from O’Connor’s on-field skills and off-field mentorship.
“I’m really excited to be joining the Crusaders for the 2025 season and eager to test myself in a new environment,” O’Connor stated. “Throughout my career, I’ve heard so much about the Crusaders culture and innovation. Experiencing it firsthand and learning a new way of playing is something I’m really looking forward to.”
Crusaders head coach Rob Penney described O’Connor as a “world-class and ambitious athlete.” He mentioned that when they learned O’Connor was available, they reached out to him, believing they could provide a new and challenging experience.
“We have two exciting and talented players in Rivez and Taha, and James adds a level of maturity that will complement them exceptionally well,” Penney added. “With his international experience and background in various overseas competitions, we anticipate the contributions he will bring to our environment after 17 seasons of professional rugby.”
O’Connor is expected to join the Crusaders squad soon, ahead of the team’s first pre-season match, the details of which will be confirmed later this month.