Leigh Halfpenny is relishing the chance to play for the Crusaders as the defending Super Rugby champions confirmed that the Welsh star has signed a one-year deal.
The utility back will run out for the Christchurch outfit when the 2024 season starts in February.
“I’ve always watched Super Rugby and the Crusaders are the team I’ve followed,” Halfpenny said in a statement on Monday.
“I’m extremely grateful to have the opportunity to join one of the best clubs in the world and I can’t wait to meet everyone.”
Halfpenny retired from international rugby after making his final appearance last Saturday when he kicked 10 points in a win over the Barbarians in Cardiff. He appeared in 103 Tests for Wales, scoring 821 points, since his 2008 debut.
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A new shade of red for Leigh Halfpenny in 2024 ❤️
Mae’r Crusaders yn hynod falch i gyhoeddi for y cefnwr chwedlonol o Gymru , Leigh Halfpenny, yn ymuno â’r tîm ar gyfer tymor 2024. Croeso Leigh! Edrychwn ymlaen yn
fawr i dy groesawu i Christchurch📝 https://t.co/4MdBOQu8fL pic.twitter.com/YwSO9LZPOj
— Crusaders (@crusadersrugby) November 5, 2023
Halfpenny brings a wealth of experience having also played four Tests for the British & Irish Lions.
He will join All Blacks backs Will Jordan and Sevu Reece in a Crusaders team chasing an eighth straight Super Rugby title with new head coach Rob Penney in charge, replacing All Blacks-bound Scott Robertson.
Penney said signing Halfpenny was “a massive coup”, adding: “Leigh’s a footballer with a huge amount of experience, charisma and skill.
“We had our feelers out for a while. Leigh was finishing up his time with Wales and still had a big desire to play at the highest level, so it’s a great fit for us.”
© Agence France-Presse
Photo: Charly Triballeau/AFP