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Exciting young Crusaders hooker signs new deal with NSW Waratahs
By Henry Lee
The NSW Waratahs have today announced the signing of impressive young Crusaders hooker Ioane Moananu for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.
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Moananu worked his way into the starting lineup of Rob Penney’s Crusaders side at the start of the season, when All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor was out of the side.
Moananu has played 18 Super Rugby Pacific games in his short career, scoring five tries this season for the Crusaders.
The 24-year-old is excited to make the trip over the tasman, saying he’s looking forward to growing as a player at the Waratahs.
“I’m big on connections and getting to know my brothers who I’ll share the field with, the coaches and the staff,” Moananu said on a Waratahs statement.
“My focus is to grow as a player under new coaches and teammates, but also to win, whatever way I can help the team reach the top, I’ll gladly do it.
“I can’t wait to meet everyone, from the players to staff and faithful fans.
“I can’t wait to join the family and add whatever I need to for this team to go back to its glory days.”
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Moananu said that his meeting with Waratahs head coach Dan McKellar was the selling point in the move.
“The opportunity to play in Super Rugby … and for my career moving forward, it was the best decision.
“Meeting with Dan McKellar and hearing his vision and seeing his plan for the team and organisation was what ultimately made me want to sign.
“He has a great plan, and he has the right people in the right places, he has a way he wants to play the game, and it fits the way I play which I am looking forward too.”
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McKellar, who admits he’s watched Moananu closely this season for the Crusaders, was impressed with how smart he is as a rugby player.
“We watched Ioane closely at the Crusaders. Obviously, he had a good season with them, he got an opportunity through injury and proved that he belongs at this level.
“He is also a smart rugby player with a very good skill set, he has the ability to play on an edge or play through the middle. He also brings an on-ball presence defensively.
“He’s a really good addition and adds strength and depth in what’s a key position.”