Saracens raid Crusaders' resources to fill Farrell void

TRANSFER NEWS: Saracens announced the signing of Fergus Burke from the Crusaders on a long-term deal.

The flyhalf, who is English-qualified, has been a part of their success in Super Rugby over the last few years and will make the move to London in an exciting move for the club.

The 24-year-old has made 33 appearances for the Christchurch-based outfit since making his debut in 2020 and was involved in their seventh consecutive title. He scored in the semifinal win over the Blues and then came off the bench in the final against the Chiefs.

After graduating from the hailed Crusaders Academy he featured for Canterbury in the Mitre 10 Cup, and a key part of his development also included featuring for New Zealand Under-20’s in the World Championship in Argentina.

With club legend Owen Farrell departing Saracens to join Racing 92 at the end of the season, Burke will look to have a big impact at Saracens as he takes on the keys to number 10.

Burke is looking forward to a new challenge in London.

So delicious 😋

A long-term deal for our new #️⃣🔟.#YourSaracens💫 | @RandstadJobs pic.twitter.com/fVPZroCWFT

— Saracens Rugby Club (@Saracens) April 2, 2024

Burke said: “I’m excited and grateful to be joining such a prestigious club. I am looking forward to coming over and meeting everyone at the club and all of the Saracens supporters.”

Director of Rugby Mark McCall is thrilled to be welcoming Burke to London.

McCall said: “Fergus is a very exciting addition to our squad and the Premiership.

“His playing ability and potential is obvious and we have been hugely impressed by his ambition and desire to take his game to the next level.

“At 24, Fergus joins a group of players who we believe can take the club forward in the years to come.”