In a world of flashy flankers, offloading locks and highlight reel hookers, there's something nostalgic about watching 6'4, 110kg Nick Champion de Crespigny blow out rucks and spark a few scuffles.
Little was known about Champion de Crespigny outside of his Shute Shield exploits with Sydney University between 2016-2021 before his overseas departure to build a 53-game body of work with Top 14's Castres.
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But the no-nonsense Western Force backrower has been a revelation across the opening three Rounds of SMARTECH Super Rugby Pacific - and fans are about to see a whole lot more of him following his three-year contract extension in Perth.
"It was a pretty easy decision .. wouldn't want to be anywhere else," Champion de Crespigny told reporters on Tuesday.
"I feel like they're making me the best player I can be and the best person I can be so be able to extend and give back to the Force is something I wanted to do."
Just three weeks into his SMARTECH Super Rugby Pacific career, Champion de Crespigny has already launched himself into Wallabies bolter contention with his uncompromising brand of versatile backrow play.
Equally comfortable across flanker and number eight, the 28-year-old is ranked third for overall tackles (53) and is fast forming a dynamic defensive duo with standout Carlo Tizzano.
Force general manager of rugby Chris Goodman put it best, describing Champion de Crepsigny as a "week-in, week-out professional"
"He’s got a hard edge to him, he likes hitting bodies (and) he’s got a good motor on him," Goodman said in a statement.
"He’s professional on and off the field (and) he adds a lot of value around the club in terms of leadership and personality.”
Champion de Crespigny will have his best chance yet to impress national selectors when his Force tackle the Waratahs in Round 4 and remains open about his Test prospects.
"I think every player says they have that ambition to play for their country and it's definitely one I have but I think foremost I want to do my best for the Force and then whatever comes will be," he said.
"It's the pinnacle of our game to face the British and Irish Lions, it only comes around once every 12 years so to be involved in that and to be able to play for your country and not only represent yourself but your family and everyone else would be a dream come true.
“But it’s also an exciting time to be part of the Western Force. Simon Cron has created a great squad and culture around the organisation, with a view to sustained success into the future.
“Signing on long term allows me to make my own imprint at the club and try to assist in moving the club the right direction.”
