Crusaders get Read back for Chiefs clash
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson has named his team for their Super Rugby Round 16 match against the Chiefs in Suva, Fiji on Saturday
There is a return to the starting side for Kieran Read, Billy Harmon, Mitch Drummond and Braydon Ennor.
Ben Funnell and Mitch Dunshea also feature in the matchday 23 this week.
Harmon has earned a start this week in place of vice-captain Matt Todd, who has been rested. Read’s return sees Whetukamokamo Douglas move from No.8 to the blindside, and Jordan Taufua shift to the reserves.
The two changes in the backline from the side that took the field against the Blues last Saturday see Bryn Hall and George Bridge move to the bench, making way for Drummond and Ennor to start this game.
“Fijian fans love their rugby, and the locals always provide a warm welcome to the team whenever we play here,” Robertson said.
“While this is a Chiefs home game, we are fortunate to have plenty of support in Suva, and look forward to the opportunity to connect with Crusaders fans over the next few days. We love playing in the heat, it’s something we’ll embrace in Fiji and make the most of the experience.”
This Saturday night we are back playing in Fiji against @ChiefsRugby – here’s our team for that NZ Derby Match! #CHIvCRU 🏉☀️🌴 pic.twitter.com/bGD5nfwUx3
— BNZ Crusaders (@crusadersrugby) May 30, 2019
Crusaders: 15 David Havili, 14 Sevu Reece, 13 Jack Goodhue, 12 Ryan Crotty, 11 Braydon Ennor, 10 Richie Mo’unga, 9 Mitchell Drummond, 8 Kieran Read, 7 Billy Harmon, 6 Whetukamokamo Douglas, 5 Sam Whitelock (captain), 4 Scott Barrett, 3 Michael Alaalatoa, 2 Andrew Makalio, 1 Joe Moody.
Replacements: 16 Ben Funnell, 17 Isi Tu’ungafasi, 18 George Bower, 19 Mitchell Dunshea, 20 Jordan Taufua, 21 Bryn Hall, 22 Mitchell Hunt, 23 George Bridge.
Date: Saturday, June 1
Venue: ANZ National Stadium, Suva
Kick-off: 19.35 (07.35 GMT)
Referee: Ben O’Keeffe (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: Glen Jackson (New Zealand), James Munro (New Zealand)
TMO: Shane McDermott (New Zealand)
