All Blacks centurion Owen Franks will return to the Crusaders in 2024, signing on to play next season for the side where he made his name.
Franks, 35, will return to the Crusaders for the first time since 2019, when he left New Zealand, after the Rugby World Cup in Japan.
After short stints with Northampton Saints in England and the Hurricanes, Franks didn't think twice about the chance to re-join his former side, as they prepare for a new era under coach Rob Penney.
"I'm hugely grateful for the opportunity to play for the Crusaders, and represent my people and my home," he said. "Coming back makes me realise what a privilege it is to play for this club.
"I'm really looking forward to rubbing shoulders with the other front-rowers and competing with them. They're all world class, in my opinion, so it'll be great to be a part of that unit."
Since his 2009 debut, Franks has amassed 153 games for the Crusaders, winning three successive titles from 2017-19 under coach Scott Robertson.
He played 108 tests for the All Blacks, but hasn't donned the black jersey since missing selection for the 2019 World Cup.
Franks replaces Oli Jager, who has taken up an opportunity to join Irish side Munster.
