The National Times - Playmaker O'Connor to put sentiment aside when Crusaders meet Reds

The 34-year-old fly-half made a shock switch to the New Zealand powerhouse after struggling with injuries last season, which saw him largely relegated to a mentoring role at the Brisbane-based Reds.

He has been named on the bench for the Crusaders, setting up a tantalising showdown in Christchurch.

"I've stayed connected with them sort of this whole time, but there's been a couple more conversations this week," O'Connor, who made 64 appearances for Australia, told reporters of his old teammates.

But any friendships will be sidelined should the former Reds captain be thrust into the fray.

"I'll be doing everything with my new team to pull them apart, whatever way I can help," he said.

Journeyman O'Connor is at his fifth Super Rugby club after beginning his career 17 years ago at Western Force.

He has also had stints at London Irish and Sale Sharks, along with French side Toulon.

The Crusaders, 14-time Super Rugby champions, had their worst campaign in more than 20 years last year and have won one and lost one so far this season.

In a boost, they welcome back All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor after a lengthy hamstring injury in one of two changes, with Dallas McLeod getting the nod at centre.

The Reds are unbeaten so far and will fancy their chances after snapping a 25-year drought with victory in Christchurch last year.

Coach Les Kiss said he was wary of the inside knowledge of O'Connor, who spent the past five seasons at the Reds.

"We've got a lot of respect for James, an exceptional player and man," Kiss said.

"He'd know a fair bit about us, without a doubt, so we've got to be able to navigate that reality and be able to make sure we stay on track and put our game plan to the fore as we'd like to.

"We'll have to be careful for sure."

D.Cook--TNT