Johnny
McNicholl

With no first XV at Cashmere High School, Johnny McNicholl started his rugby career in Sydenham Rugby Club's Colts side. He then made his way into the Canterbury Academy which provided a stepping stone to the Crusaders Development side in 2011 (prior to the Crusaders Academy being formed in 2015). His performance solidified his selection for the Canterbury provincial team a few months later where he scored two tries on his debut.

Johnny made his debut for the Crusaders in 2013 and was named in the starting 15 for his first game. In his second season, he missed only one game and claimed third equal top try scorer for the 2014 competition.

After winning the Canterbury V Tasman final of 2016, Johnny left for the Scarlets in Wales where remained until 2024, scoring 57 tries in 120 games. He also earnt 10 caps for the Welsh national team after his debut in 2020 versus France.

Johnny returned home to the Crusaders in 2024 and will be looking to play his 50th game in the 2025 season.