Crusaders coach Scott Robertson couldn't hide his delight at the arrival of Argentina captain Pablo Matera, who joined the Super Rugby Aotearoa champions for 2022.
Matera, 28, last year signed a one-year deal with the Crusaders, and brings more than 70 tests of experience with him in a boost for Robertson's side.
Away from test rugby, Matera was also a key part of the Jaguares side in previous iterations of Super Rugby, including their run to the 2019 final that saw them defeated by the Crusaders in Christchurch.
And with the Crusaders currently in pre-season training before the start of Super Rugby Pacific later this month, Robertson says he's been blown away by Matera's initial approach in his first taste of professional rugby in New Zealand.
"He still has to get the levels of intensity right at training," Robertson says.
"We might be doing clarity, he'll be doing full contact. He's got a great mindset to training, awesome pro.
"His English is really good, so picks things up really quickly and his comprehension is incredible.
"He's played in England, he's been around international sport, but I'm just impressed [with] how much of a professional he is.
"He's taken the loose forwards under his wing, and there's learning both ways. He's a good man."
Matera will face stiff competition for places in the Crusaders' Super Rugby Pacific plans, up against the likes of All Blacks Ethan Blackadder and Cullen Grace, as well as standout Tom Christie for his place in the loose forwards.
