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Crusaders deal with midfield exodus as Richie Mo’unga headlines 2027 squad

The Scott Hansen era is underway at the Crusaders, and his arrival has coincided with a grand return of one of Super Rugby's most influential talents and a generational change in the midfield.

Published: Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at 3:00 AM
Crusaders deal with midfield exodus as Richie Mo’unga headlines 2027 squad
Key Things to Know
  • The Crusaders face a midfield exodus with David Havili, Dallas McLeod, and Braydon Ennor departing.
  • Flyhalf Richie Mo'unga returns to the Crusaders after spending three seasons playing in Japan.
  • Clément Castets has signed as injury cover for sidelined prop Tamaiti Williams.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The Crusaders have revealed major squad changes under new head coach Scott Hansen, headlined by the return of flyhalf Richie Mo'unga following three seasons in Japan. The Christchurch-based franchise is managing a massive midfield overhaul after the simultaneous departures of All Blacks David Havili to Japan, alongside Dallas McLeod and Braydon Ennor to European clubs. In response, the club added midfielders Corey Evans, Jake Te Hiwi, Cooper Roberts, and Leicester Fainga'anuku.

Additional squad changes include the signing of prop Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou and French front-rower Clément Castets, who joins as injury cover for Tamaiti Williams. Mitchell Drummond also returns to the squad to replace Louis Chapman, while loose forward Finn McLeod earns a promotion alongside several academy players ahead of the 2027 Super Rugby campaign.

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