Former Scarlets and Wales outside back Johnny McNicholl has officially returned to the Crusaders. The 33-year-old was released early from his Scarlets contract to go back to his home country, New Zealand, and has rejoined his former club as injury cover for the remainder of the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season. McNicholl will be returning to the team where he played 39 Super Rugby games after debuting in 2014 and represented Canterbury 60 times. Following his time in Wales, where he played 130 games for Scarlets and earned 10 Test caps for Wales, he expressed his excitement about playing in front of his home crowd again. The Crusaders brought McNicholl on board after All Blacks star Will Jordan was ruled out for the entire season due to a shoulder injury. Head coach Rob Penney is delighted to welcome Johnny back, highlighting his proven experience and ability to produce magic on the field from any position. With a slow start to the season, losing their first two matches, the Crusaders will be looking to secure their first win against the Fijian Drua in round three.