2026 Crusaders Wider Training Group Announced
The Crusaders are proud to announce its Wider Training Group (WTG) for 2026.
These players will be just as essential to our team as the starting 23 each week. They will be a core part of our campaign right throughout our 2026 title defence.
In a major shift, we will now carry a 12-player WTG up from five in previous seasons.
This change comes as part of a national initiative to accelerate the development of Super Rugby-ready talent across New Zealand.
The WTG will be fully immersed in the Crusaders environment, receiving bespoke development plans both on and off the field.
These players will train alongside the main squad, be available as injury replacements, and benefit from increased club resourcing in medical, strength & conditioning and coaching.
“This is about investing in our future,” says Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge.
“We want to retain and grow the best talent in our region, and the WTG gives these players security, opportunity and a clear pathway to Super Rugby.”
This new structure also aligns with the launch of the Super Rugby Development Competition, replacing the previous Under 20s format. It’s a bold step forward in creating a deeper, more competitive talent pool across the country.
2026 Crusaders Wider Training Group
Jack Sexton – Prop
Gus Brown – Prop
Tomasi Maka – Hooker
Xavier Treacy – Lock
Sam Hainsworth-Fa'aofo – Loose Forward
Johnny Lee – Loose Forward
Oli Mathis – Loose Forward
Mitchell Drummond – Halfback
Cooper Grant – First Five
Cooper Roberts – Midfield
Jae Broomfield – Outside
Kurtis MacDonald – Outside
