Crusaders faced stiff competition for Fainga’anuku
Leicester Fainga’anuku turned down offers from multiple codes to re-sign with the Crusaders through 2023.
It’s not the first time the 21-year-old has had league clubs sniffing about, either, given NRL sides, including the Parramatta Eels, were interested in him when he was at Nelson College.
His blockbusting form for the red-and-blacks this season ensured the Crusaders had stiff competition from both rugby and rugby league clubs.
‘‘I would be lying if I said there wasn’t any interest elsewhere. Definitely took a lot of meetings, talking to a few key people,’’ the Tasman product said.
‘‘At the end of the day, I owe this jersey a lot, and I’ve still got a lot to give at the age of 21. Looking at the next two years, I’m just here to bleed for this region and the people that support it.’’
Fainga’anuku, a member of the Crusader’s academy since he was 15, is one of the most destructive backs in the country, and has been tipped by some pundits to crack the All Blacks later this year.
As Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson said, he’s been critical to them this season, thriving at wing and at centre, where he’s filled in admirably for the injured Jack Goodhue and Braydon Ennor.
At 1.88m tall and weighing about 109kg, he’s been a nightmare for opposing defenders with his violent running style and fine offloading game.
So, it’s no wonder league clubs put offers to Fainga’anuku, who admitted he has interest in the code.
‘‘Obviously, something I’ve always kept my mind open to since I decided to switch from league code to union. It’s always still been a dream. But at the same time looking at it, I’ve still got a lot to give to this game in the rugby union world,’’ he said.
‘‘Brainstorming before the whole pen and paper [process], I realised this club has invested a lot in me since the day I left school.
They’ve looked after myself and my family. Signing for the next two years is a way to give back to not just the organisation itself, but my family and the people that believed in me to get to where I am today, and the supporters especially.’’
Fainga’anuku made just one appearance during his rookie year in 2019, before earning 11 caps last season, mostly off the bench. Now, he’s one of just four players – Codie Taylor, Bryn Hall and Michael Alaalatoa are the others – to play in all 13 games for the Crusaders this season, starting 12 of them, scoring three tries and assisting in various others.
‘‘I think that just comes with age . . . at the age of 21, there are no excuses to be sore after weekends and what not compared to the older guys,’’ Fainga’anuku said.
Robertson compared him to All Blacks great Tana Umaga, citing his ability to play on the wing, and the potential to become an excellent centre.
That will only help him reach his goal of making the All Blacks, Robertson said.
‘‘A bit like Tana, we’ve sort of mentioned the likeness of him. He was a winger who came on in and could play multiple positions.
‘‘He can kick a ball, he’s great defensively, really physical. So, he’s got attributes to play from 12 to wing.
‘‘His goal is to be an All Black, and that’s our job to help give him those skill sets and utility factor.
‘‘He’s only 21 – feels like he’s been around for a long time. There’s areas he has to grow in. We understand that. He’s tireless in his work ethic. He’s going to be a great Crusader.’’
Fainga’anuku is one of 10 Crusaders contracted through the end of the next World Cup year, while halfback Mitchell Drummond signed through 2024 earlier this week.
Sam Whitelock, Scott Barrett, Jack Goodhue, Cullen Grace, Tom Christie, David Havili, Braydon Ennor, Quinten Strange and Mitchell Dunshea are also signed through 2023, while another half dozen players are locked in next year.