The Crusaders have now won seven of their last eight encounters against the Blues, showcasing their recent dominance over the Auckland-based franchise. The victory on Friday evening was their second win over the Blues this season, after a 42-19 victory in round six at Eden Park.
Moana Pasifika arrived in Christchurch eager to create more history and capitalize on their strong yet inconsistent form in 2025.
If O'Connor thought he was leaving the hustle and bustle of Brisbane for a slower life, with wife and dog, in Christchurch, the 34-year-old has quickly discovered otherwise.
The 64-time Wallaby says his body is feeling good and handling the rigours of training well despite being 16 years removed from his international debut.
The Queensland Reds are closing in on a deal to retain James O'Connor, who wants to remain at Ballymore and be the mentor he never had access to as rugby's prodigal son.
O'Connor was on Monday diagnosed with a low grade hamstring tear after suffering the injury during the second half of the Reds' 34-22 victory over the last-placed Moana Pasifika on Friday night.
It's unclear who will be Australia's No 10 against England, but James O'Connor's injury return against the Blues may go some way to deciding that.
James O'Connor is returning to where he turned his life around.
It won't happen this week but the door is open for James O'Connor to rejoin Australian rugby's fellow prodigal son Quade Cooper back in the Wallabies' starting XV.
When the Chiefs announced their squad for the 2021 Super Rugby season, they left space in their roster for one additional player. That spot was originally set to be filled by James O'Connor but instead, a young midfielder has grabbed it.