Ronan O'Gara's time in New Zealand will extend to the end of the 2019 Super Rugby season.
The Crusaders have announced that O'Gara has penned a one-year extension to his deal with the Christchurch-based team.
Late last year, it was announced that the former Ireland out-half would terminate his deal with Racing 92 earlier than expected to take up the role of backs coach with the Crusaders.
Dan Carter, a colleague of O'Gara's in France, played a major part in the move taking place.
"I’m delighted to be extending my contract for another season," O'Gara told the Crusaders website.
I have always been an admirer of rugby in New Zealand and to get the opportunity to work with a club like the Crusaders is a fantastic experience.
Besides being a great bunch of guys to work with, the professionalism of everyone associated with the club is incredible. It’s no wonder this part of the world has the success they do. I’m delighted my wife and family have come on this journey with me and I’m really looking forward to working with everyone again next season.
With 14 games played this season - and 12 wins notched up - the Crusaders sit top of both the New Zealand conference and Super Rugby's overall standings.
Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson said O'Gara has been a great addition to his backroom team.
"Ronan’s coaching style has been hugely valuable to us in just his first season with the club. He has quickly formed great relationships with our playing group, and has effective means of passing on his knowledge which really resonates with the team.
"We hoped at the start of the season that Ronan would provide us with a new perspective in 2018, and he has done exactly that. He brings fresh eyes and knowledge to the coaching group and we are certainly seeing the benefits of his extensive skillset and experience. We’re pleased that Ronan and his family are settled in Christchurch and he’ll continue his important contribution in 2019"
Photo by Diarmuid Greene/Sportsfile
