The Crusaders have announced that experienced centre David Havili has recommitted to the Christchurch-based outfit and New Zealand Rugby after agreeing terms on a contract extension.
Havili, who is the Crusaders’ current captain, has re-signed with the franchise until 2027.
The 30-year-old, who is in his 10th season with Super Rugby’s most successful side, is viewed as a favourite of Scott Robertson due to the All Blacks head coach’s Crusaders connection.
Havili said there are many reasons why he’s continuing to build on his legacy in the red and black.
Havili delighted
“I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to lead the boys this year and the success we’ve had. I’m so glad to have signed on for another couple of years and keep this train rolling,” he said.
The prospect of playing in One NZ Stadium next year and being close to joining the club of Crusaders players who have played 150 matches also played a role in Havili agreeing terms on his contract extension.
“Reaching that milestone and playing 150 games for this club will be pretty special,” he said.
Havili made his debut for the Crusaders in 2015 and won the side’s Player of Year award in 2017.
“When I first came in, it was the greats of this club that were still here; Dan Carter, Richie McCaw, Sam Whitelock, Kieran Read just to name a few,” he added.
“That’s what set me up in my younger days; to see what it meant to them to be a Crusader, what it takes to be a professional and perform at the highest level.
“Those are the things that I learnt from them, and I want to pass that on to our next generation to keep this club where it needs to be and that’s at the top.”
According to Havili, the main highlight of being a Crusader is the people.
“The way the club makes you feel; whether it’s your first year, second year or tenth year, it doesn’t waiver, the love and care they show for you is second to none and I think that’s why a lot of people stay around for a long time,” he revealed.
“I owe the Crusaders everything. They’ve given me so much and it’s a club I hold very close to my heart, and I’d do anything for this club, and I hope I show that in the way I perform and the way I lead this team.”
Crusaders head coach Rob Penney believes Havili is a key part of the glue that holds his team together.
“His DNA is red and black and he’s such a committed member of this organisation. The leadership he’s provided to the club has been really valuable and it’s wonderful to have him and all his experience in the organisation for another two years,” said Penney.
“David has made a significant and positive contribution to Tasman, the Crusaders and the All Blacks through a professional career that’s spanned more than a decade since his first contract with New Zealand Rugby in 2014.
“His dedication, professionalism and team-first values have been without question right from the start of his career, and to have him sign on for another two years is a great result for the game and the teams he represents.” added New Zealand Rugby General Manager Professional Rugby & Performance Chris Lendrum.
Corey Toole deal
Meanwhile, Wallabies hopeful Corey Toole has signed a one-year contract extension with the Brumbies until the end of 2026.
The 25-year-old is the joint second-highest try scorer in Super Rugby Pacific this year, crossing the line nine times, including seven in his last seven appearances.
The former Australia Sevens speedster has also registered the most line breaks in the competition with 21.
Toole is over the moon to prolong his stay at the Canberra-based outfit.
“I’m excited to continue my journey with the Brumbies for another season,” he told the Brumbies’ official website.
“I’m looking forward to developing my game even further with the help of the other players and coaching staff. I love being a part of the team here and hopefully we can deliver success for our loyal fans in Canberra.”
Toole joined the Brumbies in 2022, after making his bow for the Australia Sevens side the previous year, and he was part of the team that won the World Series title in 2021/22.
He shone for the Brumbies during last year’s Super Rugby Pacific campaign, scoring several spectacular tries before returning to the Australia Sevens team who he represented at the Olympic Games in Paris last summer.
Brumbies head coach Stephen Larkham is delighted to retain Toole’s services for another season at least.
“Corey’s growth at the Brumbies since he joined us has been remarkable. Each season he goes from strength to strength and he is showing just how good a player he is now this season,” he said.
“Obviously he is one of the quickest players in the game and every time he gets near the ball, everyone gets excited, but his defensive connection and effort has also stopped the opposition from scoring many tries this year.
“He’s an important part of the team both on and off the field and we’re really happy that he will stay on with us.”
Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/scott-robertson-favourite-signs-nzr-deal-to-boost-all-blacks-while-wallabies-hopeful-extends-brumbies-stay
