Crusaders without star lock for Blues clash

In the front row, Tim Perry makes his return from the hamstring injury he sustained against the Brumbies in Round 11, and will start at loosehead prop. Owen Franks also returns to the starting side this week, and Mike Alaalatoa moves to the reserves. 

 

Quinten Strange steps into the starting team this week in place of regular captain Samuel Whitelock, with Matt Todd to lead the side in his absence. The only other change in the forward pack sees Heiden Bedwell-Curtis take the starting spot in the No.6 jersey, and Pete Samu will provide cover on the bench. 

 

In the backs, vice-captain Ryan Crotty returns this week, and will line up in the midfield alongside Jack Goodhue. Outside back George Bridge will shift from fullback to the left wing for this game, and David Havili will wear the No.15 jersey. Manasa Mataele, having recovered from the head knock he suffered against the Waratahs, takes a spot on the bench. 

 

Crusaders: 15 David Havili, 14 Seta Tamanivalu, 13 Jack Goodhue, 12 Ryan Crotty, 11 George Bridge, 10 Richie Mo'unga, 9 Bryn Hall, 8 Jordan Taufua, 7 Matt Todd (captain), 6 Heiden Bedwell-Curtis, 5 Quinten Strange, 4 Scott Barrett, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Tim Perry.

Replacements: 16 Andrew Makalio, 17 Wyatt Crockett, 18 Michael Alaalatoa, 19 Mitchell Dunshea, 20 Pete Samu, 21 Mitchell Drummond, 22 Mitchell Hunt, 22 Mitchell Hunt.

 

Date: Saturday, May 19

Venue: Eden Park, Auckland

Kick-Off: 19.35 (07.35 GMT)

Referee: Glen Jackson (New Zealand)

Assistant referees: Cam Stone (New Zealand), Angus Mabey (New Zealand)

TMO: Shane McDermott (New Zealand)