Crusaders Super rugby head coach Scott Robertson has named a team with a number of changes for this Saturday’s match against the Chiefs in Hamilton.
Robertson has made changes in both the loose forwards and the midfield. Prop Joe Moody returns, joining Codie Taylor and Michael Alaalatoa in the front row.
Prop Joe Moody returns, joining Codie Taylor and Michael Alaalatoa in the front row. Wyatt Crockett, in his 200th Crusaders game, will provide cover on the bench.
Scott Barrett is set to play his 50th Crusaders game on Saturday night, and will line up alongside Quinten Strange at lock. Matt Todd will again resume the captaincy this week.
Jordan Taufua – who was a late withdrawal last week due to a tight calf – will line up at No. 8, which means Heiden Bedwell-Curtis moves to blindside flanker. Ethan Blackadder will provide cover on the bench, in place of Pete Samu.
TIm Bateman has been replaced in the midfield this week due to a hamstring injury, with Jack Goodhue to start at second five-eighth and Seta Tamanivalu moving in-field to centre.
Following his successful return to club rugby last weekend, Israel Dagg takes a spot on the right wing.
This week the BNZ Crusaders will also welcome back winger Jone Macilai, to the match day side. Macilai makes a successful return from injury and will wear the No. 23 jersey.
Crusaders
1. Joe Moody, 2. Codie Taylor (VC) 3. Michael Alaalatoa , 4. Scott Barrett , 5. Quinten Strange , 6. Heiden Bedwell-Curtis , 7. Matt Todd (C) , 8. Jordan Taufua , 9. Bryn Hall 23. Jone Macilai, 10. Richie Mo’unga , 11. George Bridge , 12. Jack Goodhue , 13. Seta Tamanivalu , 14. Israel Dagg , 15. David Havili
Replacements : 16. Andrew Makalio ,17. Wyatt Crockett,18. Donald Brighouse,19. Luke Romano,20. Ethan Blackadder,21. Mitchell Drummond,22. Mitchell Hunt
