BNZ Crusaders name squad for Brisbane Global Tens

Jan 31 • General News, International • 1182 Views • Comments Off on BNZ Crusaders name squad for Brisbane Global Tens

The BNZ Crusaders have named a strong side to contest the inaugural Brisbane Global Tens competition on 11 and 12 February.

All Black Seta Tamanivalu and fellow international Digby Ioane have been named in the squad, while Israel Dagg will travel with the group in his tournament ambassador role, but not take the field. All Black Luke Romano would have been named in the squad but has unfortunately been ruled out of the tournament with an injury. The remainder of the squad is a mix of new talent who will be keen to shine at the tournament, and highly experienced players who will bring vital knowledge and match experience to the group.

BNZ Crusaders Head Coach Scott Robertson said the chance to play in a well-attended tournament in the pre-season would be great preparation for the Super Rugby season ahead.

“It is exciting to be involved in a new tournament like this in its first year, and getting to play in front of a noisy crowd is also valuable preparation in the pre-season. We are looking forward to fielding a really strong squad at the Tens and showcasing what we’re capable of. We have some tough competition, so it will be a really good test of where we are at before the Super season starts,” Robertson said.

The BNZ Crusaders will play in what looks to be one of the toughest pools of the competition. They will face unknown quantity Samoa in their opening match, before taking on tournament host Reds and traditional rival Blues.

The Brisbane Global Rugby Tens features all ten professional franchises from Australia and New Zealand, along with French powerhouse Toulon, Japanese Top League side Panasonic Wild Knights, the Blue Bulls from South Africa and the Samoan national team. The tournament takes place at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on February 11 and 12.

BNZ CRUSADERS SQUAD FOR THE BRISBANE GLOBAL RUGBY TENS:

Backs	Forwards
Bryn Hall	Ben Funnell
Leon Fukofuka	Andrew Makalio
Mitchell Hunt	Tim Perry
Digby Ioane	Chris Gawler
George Bridge	Michael Alaalatoa
Sione Fifita	Oliver Jager
David Havili	Mitchell Dunshea
Tim Bateman	Quinten Strange
Jack Goodhue	Pete Samu
Seta Tamanivalu	Jordan Taufua
Manasa Mataele	Jed Brown
Sean Wainui	Whetu Douglas
Marty McKenzie