Former Reds playmaker James O’Connor to continue Super Rugby career with Crusaders

A Wallabies veteran has made a surprise move to one of New Zealand’s Super Rugby teams.

Veteran flyhalf James O’Connor’s hopes of being recalled to the Wallabies squad have received a potential boost following his shock decision to continue his Super Rugby Pacific career with the Crusaders.

O’Connor, 34, parted ways with Queensland last month after five years of service to “pursue overseas opportunities” despite being offered a new deal with the Reds.

“I’m departing Queensland a better player, leader and man,” O’Connor said at the time.

Many believed that O’Connor’s next playing contract would be either in Japan or the United States.

However. the Christchurch-based Crusaders reached out to the experienced playmaker, who jumped at the chance to join the New Zealand franchise.

James O'Connor (right) has joined the Crusaders. Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

“I’m really excited to be joining the Crusaders for the 2025 season and eager to test myself in a new environment,” O’Connor said.

“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.”

Should O’Connor find the form that earnt him 64 Wallabies caps, he could yet come into calculations for selection in Australia’s squad for next year’s series against the British and Irish Lions despite his most recent appearance for the national team having been in 2022.

Crusaders coach Rob Penney believed O’Connor’s experience – which includes playing stints in England and France – would prove invaluable to his team.

“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 (flyhalves) in Rivez (Reihana) and Taha (Kemara), and James brings a level of maturity that we believe will complement them exceptionally well.

“Having played internationally and in a range of overseas competitions, we’re looking forward to what James can bring to our environment from his 17 seasons of professional football.

“He’s also a competitor and ambitious, which will ensure there is weekly competition for the 10 jersey.”

Originally published as Former Reds playmaker James O’Connor to continue Super Rugby career with Crusaders