Andrew Makalio re-signs for Crusaders

Crusaders hooker Andrew Makalio has re-committed to the club for the 2019 Super Rugby season.

Born in Auckland, Makalio played representative rugby for Auckland from under-15s level through to Auckland B.

He made the move south to link up with the Harlequins club in Blenheim, and went on to make his provincial debut for Tasman in 2016.

“Drew’s getting more and more opportunities with the Crusaders this season and has shown already that he’s better for the increased game time at this level," commented Crusaders Head Coach Scott Robertson.

"He’s a massive contributor to our team culture and we know there is still plenty of potential to unlock in the big man, so we’re excited to have him re-commit to our group through 2019.” 

The 26-year-old played in all 12 games in the 2016 season for Tasman, including the Premiership Final against Canterbury. Three days after that match, Makalio was named in the Crusaders squad for 2017 and earned his first Super Rugby cap in round eight of the side’s Championship-winning season.