Former Lions captain Gareth Thomas has agreed to extend his stay in Rugby League.
The 36-year-old ex-Wales international switched codes in March on an initial six-month deal from Cardiff Blues.
Thomas has been out injured with a groin problem for the past eight weeks and will miss the remainder of the current season.
But that setback hasn’t prevented the Crusaders from offering the 2005 Lions leader a new one-year extension – something Thomas was delighted to commit to.
"I'm glad my contract has been sorted and I have committed to Crusaders for another year.
"I've loved my first year in Rugby League. It has been tougher than I thought. But I have got great coaches here in Wrexham and I couldn't have asked for a better bunch of boys to play with.
"That is a big reason why I want to stay here. I want to stay here and be part of this great team ethic we have here with the players, coaching staff and everyone who is involved with the club."
Thomas has so far made 13 appearances in the 13-a-side code and underwent surgery earlier this week.
He hopes to be back in time to press for international Rugby League honours when Wales begin their autumn campaign, five years after he led Wales to a Rugby Union Grand Slam.
And while the former Bridgend, Pontypridd, Cardiff, Celtic Warriors, Toulouse and Blues star admits that his first season in League hasn’t been the easiest, he is convinced the future is bright at Wales’ first top-flight Rugby League franchise.
"It has been a frustrating end to the season with the injury and stuff but I am really committed to what is going on here," added Thomas.
"I want this club to be successful and I am a great believer that sometimes players should give something back to the game.
"The club have been great to me and hopefully we can build on this year's success next season and we can bring in some new players as well as bring the talent and youngsters through.
"I've always said this club has massive potential and hopefully we can keep bringing the fans here to the Racecourse and create a successful legacy for both Rugby League and Crusaders in Wales.
"I am looking forward to next year, especially getting a full pre-season under my belt instead of coming into things late."
