Veteran flyer Johnny McNicholl had a triumphant return to the Crusaders' starting lineup during their victory against the Chiefs in Christchurch on Friday. Making his first start since coming back to New Zealand after seven seasons in Wales, McNicholl scored two tries in the Crusaders' well-earned 37-26 win. The wing's successful stint in Wales included over 100 appearances for the Scarlets and 10 Test caps for his adopted country. McNicholl's return to form aligned with the Crusaders' first win of the 2024 campaign after losing their previous five matches.

Excited about his homecoming and the team's victory, McNicholl expressed his happiness in front of his family after seven years away. Referring to the team's performance, he said, "The message in the week was just throw some punches. We felt the first five games we haven't thrown those punches so we just come out, tapping it, having a crack..." The 33-year-old admitted that he never expected to play for the Christchurch-based team again after moving to Wales, making his return to the Crusaders even more special.

Stand-in captain Tom Christie praised the entire squad's efforts after the win over the Chiefs, emphasizing their improvement and sense of freedom in playing Crusaders rugby. The Crusaders will have a bye next week before facing the Waratahs in Sydney on April 12.