O'Connor set for bombshell move to New Zealand
James O'Connor last month announced he was leaving the Queensland Reds after five years to "pursue overseas opportunities."
James O'Connor last month announced he was leaving the Queensland Reds after five years to "pursue overseas opportunities."
Since returning from Ireland, he has guided the Brumbies to two straight semi-final appearances as the other four Aussie clubs fell by the wayside.
The Crusaders will host the Hurricanes in Christchurch in an all-Kiwi opening match while the Waratahs will be the first Australian team in action.
The strapping 18-year-old centre has signed an 'elite development' contract with the Super Rugby Pacific club after considering his future in both codes.
The demise of the Melbourne Rebels was the impetus for the changes, with a generous eight of 12 teams previously making the playoffs cut.
His time in Brisbane will be remembered for him captaining the Reds to the 2021 Super Rugby AU title, scoring the decisive try in the final.
The 31-year-old - who played one Test against Japan in 2018 - was in need of a new home after the Melbourne Rebels folded.
The sextet add youth and depth to a rebuilding squad that on paper should take major strides forward under respected coach Dan McKellar.
He was the hottest property in Australian rugby following the demise of the Melbourne Rebels and now he's Sydney-bound.
Reigning world player of the year Ardie Savea has left the minor premiers to join his brother at a struggling Super Rugby Pacific club.