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Ex-All Black returns from France to break record after 12-year hiatus
By Ben Smith
Former All Black prop John Afoa broke Super Rugby records after returning to New Zealand and turning out for the Crusaders in the 42-17 against the Waratahs.
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The 38 Test veteran hadn’t played Super Rugby for 4,347 days since his last stint in 2011 with the Blues.
He officially set a new record as Super Rugby Pacific’s oldest player, 39 years and 233 days, by starting at tighthead prop for the Crusaders.
The former Blues prop debuted in 2004 before becoming a centurion with the club. After leaving New Zealand following the 2011 Rugby World Cup, Afoa has played over 250 first class games in Europe.
He just finished his season in the D2 in France with Vannes, returning to New Zealand from France two days ago.
The 39-year-old prop answered an SOS call after injuries to the Crusaders’ front row stocks depleted their squad.
Afoa managed 48 minutes in his first outing with the Crusaders, logging nine tackles and one carry.
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All Blacks George Bower, Fletcher Newell, Joe Moody and youngster Finlay Brewis are all sidelined with injuries leading to the SOS call.
Potential All Black bolter Tamaiti Williams has taken on a heavier load as a consequence which left the Crusaders searching for an answer.