Former Wallabies first-five James O’Connor is set to join the Crusaders for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season. At 34 years old, O’Connor has an impressive track record, playing 64 tests for Australia and accumulating over 120 Super Rugby caps with teams like the Western Force, Melbourne Rebels, and the Queensland Reds. He has also scored nearly 250 points for the national team.
O’Connor will take on the role of first-five for the Crusaders, competing alongside Rivez Reihana and Taha Kemara. The franchise is optimistic about O’Connor’s potential contributions both on the field and in mentoring younger players.
“I’m really excited to be joining the Crusaders for the 2025 season and eager to test myself in a new environment,” O’Connor expressed. He noted the positive reputation of the Crusaders’ culture and innovation, looking forward to experiencing it firsthand.
Crusaders head coach Rob Penney praised O’Connor as a “world-class and ambitious athlete.” Penney mentioned that upon learning O’Connor was available, the team wanted to offer him a new and challenging opportunity. He highlighted the complementary skill set O’Connor adds alongside the talented options the team already has in Rivez and Taha.
With 17 seasons of professional experience, including international play and various overseas competitions, the Crusaders are eager to see how O’Connor will enhance their environment. The coach also emphasized O’Connor’s competitive nature, which will foster healthy competition for the playmaking position.
O’Connor is expected to join the Crusaders shortly before their first pre-season game, with the schedule and opponent details to be announced later this month.