Kershawl Sykes-Martin

At the Crusaders, Kershawl Sykes-Martin is a back-row forward shaped by one of Super Rugby's most demanding environments. Born in New Zealand on 26 April 1999, the flanker plays to the relentless defensive standards that have long defined the franchise, built on a high work rate, a disruptive presence at the breakdown and strong carrying in the tight channels. Sykes-Martin is valued for the unseen work that holds a pack together: hitting rucks, making his tackles and chasing the next contest rather than admiring the last one. He provides the kind of physical consistency and turnover threat that allows the side's outside backs to play with freedom. Developing within a system renowned for producing hardened, well-drilled loose forwards, he has absorbed the detail and discipline that underpin the Crusaders' success, from defensive line speed to the technical contest at the breakdown. His mobility lets him cover ground in both attack and defence, linking phases and supporting ball-carriers across the park. A committed and industrious forward, Sykes-Martin continues to push for greater responsibility within a competitive and decorated back-row group.