All Black Leicester Fainga’anuku set to return to New Zealand in 2026

When Leicester Fainga’anuku left New Zealand Rugby behind after last year’s Rugby World Cup, it was a move that came as a bitter blow for the All Blacks moving forward. Fainga’anuku was off to Toulon, and the utility back has since gone on to star with the European powerhouse.

Just 10 days ago, the All Black was labelled the “best player on the field” after Toulon’s win over Casters in the second round of the Top 14. Once again, it was a performance that left Crusaders and All Blacks fans wondering what could’ve been.

But, earlier this week, it was reported that All Blacks coach Scott Robertson was interested in luring the powerful winger back to New Zealand’s shores. That news has since been confirmed by the Crusaders, with the club making a significant announcement on Thursday morning.

In what could come as a significant boost for the All Blacks ahead of the next Rugby World Cup, Fainga’anuku will return to New Zealand in 2026 after penning a two-year deal with the most successful club in Super Rugby history.

“We’re of course excited to have Leicester come back into the fold here at the Crusaders for the 2026 season,” Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge said in a statement.

“He’s an outstanding young man who has continued to show what a remarkable athlete he is during his time in Europe. It was wonderful to connect with him when he joined us to watch the Crusaders play Munster in January and it felt like he hadn’t left.”

Fainga’anuku made his Super Rugby debut in 2019 and quickly went on to become a mainstay of the Crusaders' side. The Nelsons College graduate finished the 2022 season as the equal top try scorer with Sevu Reece and Will Jordan – a stat that highlights the Crusaders’ period of dominance.

The now 24-year-old crossed for 13 tries in as many appearances the following season, which was capped off by another title at the end of the campaign. Fainga’anuku was ultimately rewarded after being included in the All Blacks’ Rugby World Cup squad.

After coming off the bench against France in the opening match of the tournament, Fainga’anuku went on to start in three other matches, including the thrilling win over Ireland in the quarter-final stage – with the left winger scoring a decisive try in that Test.

“Leicester is a huge asset to any team he is part of, so to have him back in Christchurch is really positive,” coach Rob Penney explained.

“He has plenty of years left to play at the top level, and we’re all very pleased he’s chosen to return to the Crusaders. I’m sure all members and fans will be just as excited as we are to see run out onto the new turf at One New Zealand Stadium for the 2026 season.”