Hey everyone! Big news in the rugby world – All Blacks star Codie Taylor is taking a break from the game, and it looks like we won’t be seeing much of him in the upcoming Super Rugby season. The Canterbury Crusaders, who are the defending champions, just announced their squad for the new season, and it’s got some interesting additions. Wales full-back Leigh Halfpenny and former All Blacks centre Ryan Crotty are joining the team, which is pretty cool.
But back to Codie Taylor – the 32-year-old hooker played in the World Cup final last month, but now he’s decided to take a break from playing. After being with the Crusaders for a decade, he’s earned himself a well-deserved rest. He’s expected to make a comeback around late April, just in time for the play-offs. The Crusaders are aiming for their eighth straight Super Rugby title, and they’ll be under the guidance of their new head coach, Rob Penney.
In other news, there are some interesting player movements happening across the Super Rugby Pacific teams. All Blacks prop Angus Ta’avao is heading back to where it all began for him – the Auckland Blues. It’s a bit of a homecoming for him, and it’ll be exciting to see him back in action. Former Wales fly-half Rhys Patchell is joining the Otago Highlanders, and Argentina fullback Martin Bogado is returning for his second season with the Dunedin-based team.
And that’s not all – New Zealand-born England loose forward Brad Shields is making a comeback to the Wellington Hurricanes after his stint in Europe. He’s set to fill in for All Blacks loose forward Ardie Savea, who’s off to Japan for the 2024 Super Rugby season. Over in Australia, there are some interesting moves too. Wallabies prop Taniela Tupou has joined the Melbourne Rebels, and the Western Force have made some key signings in the form of half-backs Nic White and Ben Donaldson.
So, there you have it – lots of player movements and changes happening as we gear up for the new Super Rugby season. It’s going to be an exciting one, and we can’t wait to see how it all unfolds!