Hurricanes land All Blacks XV lock from Crusaders

The Hurricanes have landed a big fish in the form of 22-year-old lock Zach Gallagher, who will depart the Crusaders after three impressive seasons with the club.

The youngster's form saw him selected in the All Blacks XV at the ripe age of 21 in 2023, one of just two second rowers included in the team selected by former All Blacks boss Ian Foster.

At 197 cm and 117 kg, the Cantabrian adds significant bulk to an already physical Hurricanes pack, while fortifying the club's future stocks in the position.

“It’s pleasing to be able to add a player like Zach to our roster ahead of 2025. Our coaching staff have worked hard to build a culture where players want to come and be part of the Hurricanes,” Clark Laidlaw said.

“Zach has the attributes to become an outstanding rugby player and is someone which we have identified can add to the size and ability we already have in that area.”

A student at the University of Canterbury, Gallagher said he was excited to get out of his comfort zone and join a new environment in the capital.

“As a born and bred Cantabrian, I was honoured to represent the Crusaders. From speaking to the Hurricanes coaches, I was excited by the opportunity to be able to represent such a fantastic team," said the lock.

"They had an outstanding 2024 season and I am thrilled to be able to make the shift to Wellington and work with Bryn and Whoppa (Jamie Mackintosh) after the NPC campaign with Canterbury.”

This news comes just a day after the Hurricanes locked in All Black-in-waiting Peter Lakai on a new deal that will see him remain in yellow through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.