Mark Tele'a's days as an All Black are over. That's the prevailing belief now the winger has opted to play out his career in Japan, despite remaining eligible for the remainder of 2025 as he sees out his New Zealand Rugby contract.
The Crusaders have the luxury of consistency as they further their pursuit of another title. But this week, something of a wildcard Blues side stand in their way.
Mark Tele'a made the right call by signing a deal in Japan effectively ending his time in the black jersey and with the Blues.
Caleb Clarke, Mark Tele'a and Will Jordan have been regularly been used in the past couple of years, but with Tele'a rumoured to be moving overseas to Japan, a spot has opened up.
The Crusaders escaped Wellington with a win, but only narrowly after some poor decisions late in the piece compounded pressure in the windy city.
Super Rugby Pacific's week-by-week Player of the Year voting system has been bringing fans an insight into which players have been impressing opposition the most in 2025.
The Crusaders ventured into the cauldron of Fijian rugby for their round eight matchup but refused to melt away in a hard-hitting affair.
All Black and Crusaders winger Sevu Reece will line up in the midfield for the first time in his Super Rugby career when the Crusaders face the Drua in Fiji.
A number of returning players from injury and a new No. 10 headline the Crusaders' team naming for Moana Pasifika this week.
The 42-19 victory for Rob Penney's side back up the previous two wins where they also scored over 40 points in the game, showcasing the attacking quality they have in their backline.