Rugby: Ronan O'Gara signs on for another year with Crusaders

Ronan O'Gara. Getty

Ronan O'Gara has signed on for another season as the Crusaders' backs coach.

The former Ireland international joined the Super Rugby franchise at the start of the year, having previously served as an assistant at French Top 14 team, Racing 92.

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson says they hoped O'Gara would provide them with a new perspective and he's done exactly that.

"Ronan's coaching style has been hugely valuable to us in just his first season with the club. He has quickly formed great relationships with our playing group, and has effective means of passing on his knowledge which really resonates with the team.

"We hoped at the start of the season that Ronan would provide us with a new perspective in 2018, and he has done exactly that. He brings fresh eyes and knowledge to the coaching group and we are certainly seeing the benefits of his extensive skillset and experience. We're pleased that Ronan and his family are settled in Christchurch and he'll continue his important contribution in 2019," Robertson said.

The Crusaders have secured the services of Bryn Hall for 2019.

The 26-year-old, who has played 62 Super Rugby games to date, made his debut for the Blues - against the Crusaders - back in 2013. He earned 32 caps for the club before moving to Christchurch ahead of the 2017 season.

Hall was an influential figure in the BNZ Crusaders' title-winning campaign last year, playing 17 games, including starting spots in each of the team's Super Rugby play-off matches.

He was also the starting halfback in the Crusaders' historic match against the British and Irish Lions in June, and scored four tries during the 2017 season, including the opening try in the Crusaders' Semi-Final victory over the Chiefs in Christchurch.