Gisborne’s Fergus Burke enjoying life and rugby, English-style

Gisborne's Fergus Burke is making his mark since heading overseas to play for Saracens in the English Premiership. Photo / Photosport

Gisborne’s former Crusaders first five-eighths Fergus Burke has scored his first try for Saracens in English Premiership Rugby.

Burke is the high-profile Saracens replacement for former England captain Owen Farrell and has helped the club win their first three games to lead the Premiership table.

Interviewed by the Guardian recently about stepping into the boots of Farrell, Burke said he had “to be my own player”.

Burke has played all three matches for Saracens in the English 2024-2025 season.

He kicked three penalties and two sideline conversions in the 35-26 away win over Gloucester.

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall told Plant Rugby: “Fergus had an impressive debut. He is a different personality to Owen but he has the same skill set to him by being able to pass and kick excellently.”

Burke also played in the second-round 45-26 home win over Sale but was not the goal-kicker.

He scored a try in the third round 29-14 victory over Exeter Chiefs.

Centre Alex Lozowski, with one test cap against Japan in 2018, has been the goal-kicker in the two most recent matches and is in camp with England this week.

Burke told the Guardian he liked Sunday English roasts and the fast and chaotic nature of central London.

“New Zealand’s a slow country, especially where I’ve grown up.”

The Guardian said Saracens fans will want to know if this “guy from Gisborne can play”.

“The name’s Burke. Fergus Burke. You’ll soon be hearing it a lot.”