In a candid interview just days after his impressive debut for the Crusaders in Super Rugby Pacific, former Wallabies fly-half James O’Connor reflected on his past struggles in the playmaking role and his aspirations to prove himself worthy of a spot in the upcoming British and Irish Lions series.
Admitting Past Shortcomings
Now 34 years old, O’Connor acknowledged that he didn’t fully grasp the intricacies of the fly-half position earlier in his career, despite being thrust into the role during the last Lions tour of Australia in 2013.
“I know where I went wrong last time in the gold jersey. I didn’t know how to play the game until I was 30,”
James O’Connor on The Good, The Bad, & The Rugby podcast
O’Connor revealed that it wasn’t until his return to the Queensland Reds in recent years that he started to truly understand the nuances of steering a team around the park. Even then, he admits, there was still a steep learning curve.
Adapting His Game
The experienced back said that in the past, he often played in a way that didn’t suit his natural strengths, sitting deep in the pocket rather than getting his hands on the ball and sparking the attack. Now, with a better grasp of the game, he believes he can make a much bigger impact.
“If my body is fast enough to do what my mind wants to do then let’s see what can happen.”
James O’Connor
Crusaders Debut Sparks Hope
O’Connor’s move to the powerhouse Crusaders franchise in Christchurch appears to have reinvigorated his career. Coming off the bench in the nail-biting 33-25 victory over the Hurricanes, he made an immediate impact with his playmaking and distribution skills.
Connecting with All Blacks stars like Will Jordan and Sevu Reece, O’Connor looked right at home pulling the strings for the perennial champions. His short passing game and vision to create attacking opportunities caught the eye of fans and pundits alike.
Wallabies Ambitions Remain
Despite being on the outer with the Wallabies in recent times, O’Connor made it clear that the 2025 Lions tour remains firmly in his sights. He revealed that he has spoken with Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt about where he stands.
“I am very aware the other guys have got a nod first, but I’m just putting that question out there. If I’m playing well enough and I’m doing a job, why can’t I be in the question still?”
James O’Connor
While acknowledging the odds may be slim, O’Connor is determined to let his performances do the talking and force his way back into the national setup through sheer weight of performance in Super Rugby.
Warm Welcome from Crusaders Fans
If his Crusaders debut is any indication, the mercurial playmaker may just win over the rugby public in New Zealand as well. In a gesture that went viral on social media, a group of Crusaders fans paid for O’Connor’s McDonald’s order at a drive-thru after spotting him in the car behind them.
James O'Connor has had a great welcome to Crusaders country 🍟 #SuperRugbyPacific pic.twitter.com/22C8PoUZ47
— RUGBYcomau (@rugbycomau) February 16, 2025
While the goodwill of Crusaders fans is heartening, O’Connor made it clear his allegiance still lies with the Wallabies, pouring cold water on any notion of an All Blacks defection. For now, his sole focus is letting his rugby do the talking and earning a shot at redemption against the Lions.
As James O’Connor embarks on this new chapter with the Crusaders, Wallabies fans will be watching with keen interest to see if the one-time wonderkid can finally fulfill his immense potential and force his way back into the frame for international honors. Only time will tell if his Christchurch sojourn proves the catalyst for a remarkable renaissance in gold.
