Crusaders name strong 38-man squad, sign 18-year-old Tasman flyer Leicester Faingaanuku for 2019

The Crusaders have named their 38-man squad for the 2019 Super Rugby season today with five new players added to next year’s team.

Tasman teen Leicester Faingaanuku, 18, is one of three new backs included in the Crusaders side.

Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson says the young star has great promise to become a future star in the game.

"Leicester was an incredible age-group player and dominated through schools' rugby," said Robertson.

"His size and power are his greatest strengths, so it's no surprise he finds his way to the try line frequently. We know he'll take that potential and perform for us in a Crusaders jersey."

Canterbury backs Brett Cameron and Ngane Punivai are also new additions to the Crusaders' backline.

Forwards Whetu Douglas and Harry Allan return in the black and red colours, having previously played for the back-to-back champions in the past.

Robertson said both Douglas and Allan will bring a lot of power and experience to their already stacked forward pack.

"Whetu was a popular member of our team in 2017, with fans and team mates alike, so we are thrilled to have him back in a Crusaders jersey," said Robertson.

"He was unlucky to miss part of the Canterbury season through injury but he'll come back ready for a big Super season in 2019. He's a genuine leader and a great team man.

"Harry is a strong, young front rower with plenty of potential. He's been in our environment before and that experience will set him up nicely for his first full Super Rugby season."

Crusaders 2019 squad: Michael Alaalatoa, Tim Bateman, Harry Allan George Bridge, Scott Barrett, Brett Cameron, Ethan Blackadder, Ryan Crotty, Whetukamokamo Douglas, Israel Dagg, Mitchell Dunshea, Mitchell Drummond, Owen Franks, Ereatara Enari, Ben Funnell, Braydon Ennor, Billy Harmon, Leicester Faingaanuku, Oliver Jager, Jack Goodhue, Andrew Makalio, Bryn Hall, Joe Moody, David Havili, Tim Perry, Mitchell Hunt, Kieran Read, Will Jordan, Luke Romano, Manasa Mataele, Tom Sanders, Richie Mo'unga, Quinten Strange, Ngane Punivai, Jordan Taufua, Codie Taylor, Matt Todd, Sam Whitelock.