The Crusaders have confirmed the signing of veteran Australian playmaker James O'Connor on a one-year deal for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season

The Crusaders have moved quickly after Newstalk ZB first reported earlier this week that the 63-test Wallaby was in talks with the Christchurch-based franchise.

Nick Bewley reports.



O'Connor is 34.

Meanwhile a shock retirement for Black Ferns back Grace Steinmetz.

The 26 year old has posted on social media that she has a brain injury and needs to "medically retire and never play rugby again".

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