Crusaders get Goodhue back for Hurricanes clash
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson has made just one change to the starting side to face the Hurricanes in Addington.
Centre Jack Goodhue has recovered from a minor groin injury and joins the team this week, while Braydon Ennor moves to the bench.
The only other change in the matchday team sees 21-year-old prop Harry Allan replace Tim Perry in the reserves. Perry left the field against the Blues with a fractured forearm.
“We are fortunate to have some talented young players coming through, and we’re excited to give them an oppportunity to play at this level,” Robertson said.
“Braydon was exceptional for us in the midfield last week, and now Harry Allan gets another chance to play Super Rugby early in the season. We wish Tim all the best with his recovery and look forward to a huge contest on Saturday night.”
Crusaders: 15 David Havili, 14 Manasa Mataele, 13 Jack Goodhue, 12 Ryan Crotty, 11 George Bridge, 10 Richie Mo’unga, 9 Bryn Hall, 8 Whetukamokamo Douglas, 7 Matt Todd (captain), 6 Jordan Taufua, 5 Quinten Strange, 4 Scott Barrett, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Andrew Makalio, 1 Joe Moody.
Replacements: 16 Ben Funnell, 17 Harry Allan, 18 Michael Alaalatoa, 19 Luke Romano, 20 Tom Sanders, 21 Mitchell Drummond, 22 Mitchell Hunt, 23 Braydon Ennor.
Date: Saturday, February 23
Venue: Christchurch Stadium, Christchurch
Kick-off: 19.35 (06.35 GMT)
Referee: Ben O’Keeffe (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: Federico Anselmi (Argentina), Nick Briant (New Zealand)
TMO: Glenn Newman (New Zealand)
