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WELLINGTON, New Zealand — When James O'Connor made his first appearance in Super Rugby for the Christchurch-based Crusaders it marked the latest and possibly last episode in a career which has taken him from enfant terrible to elder statesman. The 34-year-old took the field as a 57th minute replacement as the Crusaders beat the Hurricanes 33-25 in the first match of the 2025 season. He produced an impactful performance, taking the ball to the line repeatedly and in an early touch making a short pass to Will Jordan that contributed to a try by Sevu Reece.
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