Richie Mo'unga: From Dan Carter fan to Crusaders chief playmaker

  • 03/08/2018

The Crusaders haven't won a Super Rugby final at home since 2008, when a star-studded red-and-black machine outgunned the Waratahs 20-12.

Ten years ago Richie Mo'unga was a fan watching in the stands. On Saturday, he hopes to emulate his hero, All Black great Dan Carter.

Mo'unga posed with Carter post-match for an image the Crusaders have shared on their Facebook page.

Mo'unga spoke fondly of his experience that night during the pre-match build-up on Thursday.

"It's a vivid memory of mine," Mo'unga said. "From that day, I've always wanted to be part of a final at home and to do it this Saturday, I get to create my dream."

Richie Mo'unga: From Dan Carter fan to Crusaders chief playmaker

Five years after the photo with Carter, the one-test All Black made his provincial debut for Canterbury.

Just a decade later, the 24-year-old is the talk of New Zealand rugby and the heir apparent to Carter's throne.

Kieran Read is the only surviving Crusader from that 2008 Super Rugby champion side.

Richie Mo'unga: From Dan Carter fan to Crusaders chief playmaker

Newshub.