Welsh star Leigh Halfpenny said he relished the chance to play for the Canterbury Crusaders as the defending Super Rugby champions confirmed Monday that he has signed a one-year deal.

The full-back will run out for the Christchurch-based side when the 2024 season starts in February.

"I've always watched Super Rugby and the Crusaders are the team I've followed," Halfpenny said in a statement.

"I'm extremely grateful to have the opportunity to join one of the best clubs in the world and I can't wait to meet everyone."

Halfpenny retired from international rugby after making his final appearance last Saturday when he kicked 10 points in a win over the Barbarians in Cardiff.

He appeared in 103 Tests for Wales, scoring 821 points, since his 2008 debut.

Halfpenny brings a wealth of experience having also played four Tests for the British and Irish Lions.

He will join All Blacks backs Will Jordan and Sevu Reece in a Crusaders side chasing an eighth straight Super Rugby title with new head coach Rob Penney in charge, replacing All Blacks-bound Scott Robertson.

Penney said signing Halfpenny was "a massive coup".

"Leigh's a footballer with a huge amount of experience, charisma and skill,” Penney added.

"We had our feelers out for a while. Leigh was finishing up his time with Wales and still had a big desire to play at the highest level, so it’s a great fit for us."