Crusaders are buoyed by the return of two key All Blacks for the Southern Derby.
The return of two All Blacks in the front row has encouraged the Crusaders as they attempt to recover from a disheartening 33-28 loss to the Reds.
Tamaiti Williams has been chosen loosehead prop, while Codie Taylor returns as hooker after a non-playing hiatus. Fletcher Newell will start at tighthead to complete the front row.
Williams has not played since sustaining a hamstring injury in round one, and his comeback is a welcome boost for the Crusaders, who are under assault.
“Fabulous,” Rob Penney commented on Wednesday.
“They are both outstanding Crusaders, as well as excellent players and people. They provide a lot of value when they’re around and provide bounce and buoyancy, which is ideal for us right now.”
In another encouragement, captain Scott Barrett has been picked despite leaving the field after 13 minutes last week due to back spasms. He will join Quinten Strange in the second row to form a formidable tight five.
Ethan Blackadder, who injured his thigh while training, is missing. Corey Kellow has been picked openside, with Cullen Grace on the blind and Christian Lio-Willie at number eight.
The David Havili experiment at first five will continue, but after making his Super Rugby debut last week, Welsh international Leigh Halfpenny has been dropped, and Johnny McNicholl, another capped Wales player, has replaced him.
Chay Fihaki switches to the right wing, while Sevu Reece maintains his shift to the left.
“Irrelevant of where teams are on the table, the Southern Derby is a massive occasion for both sides,” Penney stated.
“It’s a long and deeply held tradition this game and it’s something we’ll do justice to.”
