All Blacks back-rower Ethan Blackadder has signed a contract extension with the Crusaders and New Zealand Rugby until 2025. The Super Rugby side confirmed that the flanker will remain in New Zealand, and with the Canterbury club.
Blackadder has made nine test caps for the All Blacks, and looks set for a trip to France for the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Blackadder made his debut for New Zealand in 2021 against Tonga, and became All Black #1195.
Blackadder joined the Crusaders in 2018 as Crusader #220 and has since been part of five title winning teams.
“It’s pretty special to be staying with the Crusaders, a club that I love playing rugby for,” Blackadder said to the Crusaders Official Club Website.
“We have a great team and a great culture on and off the field, so I’m stoked to continue to be a part of that. But most importantly, I get to keep playing rugby with my mates.”
Scott Robertson, Crusaders Head Coach, said Blackadder was a versatile player who, since joining the side in 2018, had made a huge impact.
“Ethan represents everything that the Crusaders are. He’s strong, he’s humble, he’s a team player, and he shows a lot of care for his club and his teammates,” Robertson said.
“To have him locked in here until 2025 is huge for both club and country.”