Crusaders hold onto prominent No.9
TRANSFER NEWS: Crusaders have secured the services of Bryn Hall in 2019, with the scrumhalf recommitting to the franchise for one more Super Rugby season.
The 26-year-old, who has played 62 Super Rugby games to date, made his debut for the Blues – against the Crusaders – back in 2013. He earned 32 caps for the club before moving to Christchurch ahead of the 2017 season.
Hall was an influential figure in the Crusaders’ title-winning campaign last year, playing 17 games, including starting spots in each of the team’s Investec Super Rugby play-off matches. He was also the starting scrumhalf in the Crusaders’ historic match against the British and Irish Lions in June and scored four tries during the 2017 season, including the opening try in the Crusaders’ Semi-Final victory over the Chiefs in Christchurch.
Crusaders Head Coach Scott Robertson said Hall is an important signing for the 2019 season: “Bryn is a dynamic player – he’s tough and competitive and brings great energy to the group both on the field and at training.
“He was a key signing for us last year and continues to take his opportunities in the jersey. Bryn’s still young, but he provides great leadership, a cool head under pressure, and genuine grit in those close contests. His contribution to our team has been massive, so we’re excited that he’ll join us again in 2019,” Robertson said.
Hall made his provincial debut for North Harbour in 2012 and captained New Zealand Under 20 side that same year. He has 55 provincial caps for North Harbour and earned selection in the Maori All Blacks for the first time in 2017, during the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand.
The former New Zealand Schools’ Captain said the Crusaders environment was the best fit for furthering his rugby career: “The 2017 season was an incredible ride, so in the end, the decision to sign on for another season with this group of coaches and players was an easy one to make.
“There is plenty of healthy competition here for the halfback spot, and this environment has brought out the best in my game and been great for my development. I’m looking forward to returning to Christchurch for the 2019 season,” Hall said.
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