BBC Rugby Union: Crusaders Rookie Hotham Shines Amidst Challenging Campaign
In a dramatic turn of events, the reigning Super Rugby Pacific champions, the Crusaders, have faced a challenging 2024 season. However, a notable positive to emerge from their campaign is the rapid growth and emergence of young halfback Noah Hotham.
The 21-year-old Hotham showcased immense promise in his various appearances in 2023, before his rookie year was cut short to attend the U20 World Championships with the Baby Blacks. This year, Hotham has firmly secured the starting No. 9 jersey, surpassing club stalwart Mitch Drummond and delivering influential performances throughout the campaign.
One such standout performance came in the Crusaders’ round 15 victory over Moana Pasifika, a crucial game that kept their playoff hopes alive. Hotham contributed an impressive 70 passes, nine kicks, two offloads, and a remarkable try, helping his team secure a 43-10 win.
“He’s a gem, on and off the field.” – Crusaders coach Rob Penney
Penney highlighted Hotham’s growth, noting that the experiences he gained with the U20 New Zealand team have helped him develop and turn his weaknesses into strengths.
Hotham’s rapid progress has not gone unnoticed, with the young halfback’s name being mentioned in the All Blacks selection debate alongside other talented New Zealand scrumhalves. Crusaders fans will be eager to see if Hotham can maintain his impressive form and potentially earn a call-up to the national team in the near future.
The Crusaders’ forward pack may not have been as dominant as in previous years, but towards the end of the campaign, the wheels were turning, providing a strong platform for Hotham to shine. The young halfback acknowledged the contribution of his pack, stating, “Shout out to the forwards, it makes a back’s life so much easier.”
With the Crusaders’ playoff fate now resting on the results of other matches, Hotham and his teammates can only wait and hope for the best. As the rugby union news season draws to a close, the Crusaders’ supporters will be keeping a keen eye on the young halfback’s continued development and the team’s push for a late playoff berth.
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