The Crusaders have plucked prop Michael Alaalatoa out of the Manawatu NPC ranks to play Super Rugby in 2016.
The Sydney-born former Samoan under-20 tighthead made one appearance off the bench for the Waratahs in 2014 but was unused this year.
His shift across the Tasman to play for Manawatu has paid dividends.
The 24-year-old's performances were noticed by Crusaders forward coach Dave Hewett, who needed a replacement for Chiefs-bound four-Test All Black Nepo Laulala.
"He's put in some impressive performances for the Turbos and, importantly, has really grown across the season," Hewett said.
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"It's obvious that he is working hard on his game and is ambitious and determined to succeed."
The Crusaders boast All Blacks Wyatt Crockett and Owen Franks along with the seasoned Tim Perry, who will miss the opening weeks of the championship with a knee ligament injury.
Alaalatoa will link with former Waratahs teammate Ben Volavola, the Fijian international who will contend to fill the boots of departing Crusaders five-eighths Dan Carter, Colin Slade and Tom Taylor.
