The Crusaders’ 2024 Super Rugby Pacific squad has been announced, however Codie Taylor, a dedicated hooker, will miss several of the team’s games.
The 85-test All Black has chosen to spend the majority of the 2024 season off from competition, meaning they won’t be available when Super Rugby kicks off.
“He’s been away from home for an extended period of time recently, and the Crusaders fully respect and support him taking this time,” the team stated in a statement. “Codie is anticipated to be available for selection in the final few games of season ’24.” While there were several candidates to take Sam Whitelock’s place in the Crusaders’ second row, Zach Gallagher is the one who most excites fans.
A highly touted star of the future, Gallagher will be well-placed to take another step in 2024 – be it off the bench or in the run-on squad.
The rest of the Super Rugby Pacific franchises also named their squads for the 2024 season today.
A few big revelations have emerged already, with the Crusaders confirming the signing of Wales star Leigh Halfpenny and the return of former All Black Ryan Crotty.
All 12 squads for the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific tournament have been announced.
The Crusaders squad named at 3pm on Thursday was:
Codie Taylor
Brodie McAlister
George Bell
Ioane Moananu
Joe Moody
Finlay Brewis
George Bower
Tamaiti Williams
Fletcher Newell
Scott Barrett (capt)
Quinten Strange
Tahlor Cahill
Zach Gallagher
Jamie Hannah
Ethan Blackadder
Cullen Grace
Tom Christie
Christian Lio-Willie
Corey Kellow
Dominic Gardiner
Noah Hotham
Mitchell Drummond
Willi Heinz
Fergus Burke
Taha Kemara
Rivez Reihana
David Havili
Dallas McLeod
Levi Aumua
Ryan Crotty
Jone Rova
Will Jordan
Sevu Reece
Macca Springer
Manasa Mataele
Chay Fihaki
Leigh Halfpenny
Heremaia Murray