Hall sticks with the Crusaders

The Crusaders have locked in their victorious starting team from the Super Rugby final for next season.

Halfback Bryn Hall was the only starter from the Crusaders’ 25-17 title-winning side over the Lions yet to commit for 2018, but has inked a one-year deal to remain with the red-and-blacks.

Hall’s re-signing means the Crusaders have 29 players on their books for next season with only a few holes left to fill.

North Harbour’s Hall split time at halfback with Mitchell Drummond throughout much of his first Super Rugby season with the Crusaders. He was the firstchoice option during the finals with Drummond used off the bench.

Hall, 25, proved a handy acquisition for the Scott Robertsoncoached side having previously played for the Blues, who he debuted for in 2013.

He relished the chance to regain his best form, having struggled with injury while at the Blues, missing the 2015 season with a broken foot.

‘‘Working under this coaching team and amongst this group of players has been awesome for my development and enjoyment of the game,’’ Hall said.

‘‘I love that I have to perform at my best every week to compete for that halfback spot. It has brought out the best in both Drummy [Mitchell Drummond] and I. I have enjoyed every minute of the 2017 season, so it was an easy decision for me to re-sign for 2018.’’

Coach Scott Robertson was thrilled to retain Hall for next season and said he had thrived in the Crusaders set-up.