Crusaders RL have made Australian forward Shannan McPherson their first recruit for 2012.

The 25-year-old prop or second rower will join the Welsh club on a two-year deal after South Sydney Roosters agreed to release him from the final year of his contract with them.

“I am excited about joining Crusaders in 2012,” McPherson said. “I’m most fortunate that Souths were kind enough to allow me to take up this opportunity as playing overseas is something I have always wanted to do.

“Crusaders are a club on the way up. I made plenty of my own inquiries into their structure and set-up and everything was really positive.

“It’s a new challenge and a new adventure for my family and I and we look forward to being part of the club next year.”

McPherson has made 84 NRL appearances for the Rabbitohs, 14 of them this season, in a first-grade career which began in 2005.

Crusaders coach Iestyn Harris said: “Shannan is an exceptional player and I’m really pleased to have him on board.

“We’ve been really busy with out recruitment for next season and Shannan ticks a lot of our boxes.

“He’s strong, athletic, hard-working and he has a great attitude. Shannan has shown a real desire to come over here and prove himself.

“His energy and work rate are going to be really valuable assets for us and I’m looking forward to working with him next season.”

Souths chief executive Shane Richardson said: “It’s always tough when one of your juniors moves on but we wish Shannan the best of luck with his new adventure.”