Leigh Halfpenny on his upcoming debut

Leigh Halfpenny is here to play, finally getting his run out on Saturday night versus the Reds at Apollo Projects Stadium.

We. Are. Pumped.

Local media caught up with the Welsh superstar at Friday’s captain’s run training.

“Yeah, obviously very excited about the game on Saturday, can’t wait to run out there with the jersey on tomorrow with the lads for my debut,” Halfpenny said.

“As a kid I always loved watching Super Rugby. It’s very fast, very physical.”

Halfpenny was injured in our pre-season game versus Munster in Cork on 3 February. Asked how it’d been sitting sideline since then, he admitted it was hard but had been “awesome watching the boys and the work they’ve put in every week”.

“The boys and the whole team have been working hard throughout the week to build on each performance,” he said.

Matt Todd, Crusaders Assistant Coach, said he was excited to see what he can do in the jersey.

“Obviously he’s a real professional and the way he’s come back from his injury speaks volumes around his dedication to his rehab, making dure he’s done everything he could to get back on the park,” Todd said.

As a player, Halfpenny has been in “every situation you could possibly be in”, Todd said, “so to have that experience is great”.

“His communication out on the paddock and in meetings has been massive, as well as his excitement. It’s great to see someone of his experience so excited for this week.”

Halfpenny pulls on the Crusaders 15 jersey on Saturday in a huge moment for the franchise. Don’t miss your chance to witness the moment. Get your tickets now.