Crusaders ready for 'biggest' game
Saturday's Super Rugby encounter with the Hurricanes is this season's biggest game yet for the Crusaders, according to coach Todd Blackadder.
The Crusaders will take on the Hurricanes at their new home ground in Addington (Christchurch) in the 16th round of this year's Super Rugby season.
Blackadder says there are three main reasons why this game will be a special one and one that fans will not want to miss.
"The first reason is that Wyatt Crockett will mark 100 games for the Crusaders on Saturday, a remarkable feat for a prop particularly," Blackadder said.
Crockett came into the Crusaders wider training group in 2005, and the following year was named a member of the playing squad.
Playing 100 games for the franchise makes him a member of an illustrious club that includes just nine other players and such great names as Richie McCaw, Corey Flynn, Reuben Thorne, Leon MacDonald, Justin Marshall, and most recently Dan Carter.
Crockett is only the second prop to have made the century (Greg Somerville being the other).
Blackadder says Crockett is an unbelievably hard worker, a true team player, and a person that demands the respect and admiration of his peers. He says his teammates will be determined to make this game one to remember for Crockett.
Also making this a special game is the fact that it is the first time the Hurricanes have played in Christchurch since 2009.
Last year the teams only played one of their two scheduled matches, after the February earthquake caused the first game to be cancelled and declared a draw.
"The third reason why fans should get along and be a part of this special is the amount that is riding on it," said Blackadder.
"The Hurricanes, like us, are currently sitting in a potential play-off spot. Both teams are looking at making or breaking their play-off chances in the next couple of games they play, so this result is crucial.
"We are fortunate to have the home-ground advantage for this game and I am urging fans to pack out the stadium to make sure the team really feels your support.
"The crowds at each of our home games have been truly amazing, and we shouldn't underestimate what effect that has on the players on the field. We want our fans to know how sincerely we appreciate your support, and we are calling on you to keep it up for the next couple of games at home. This is the business end of the season where we need your support more than ever, so come along and be a part of the action and help us make this a Super season to remember," Blackadder said.
