Crusaders ring the changes ahead of Stormers clash

Mar 6 • General News, Super Rugby • 2201 Views • Comments Off on Crusaders ring the changes ahead of Stormers clash

Crusaders team to play the Stormers

When the Crusaders take on the Stormers this Saturday night, one player will be primed to make his Crusaders debut and two of the team’s most senior players receive international awards.

Fans at AMI Stadium will be able to share in the occasion of Kieran Read and Richie McCaw receiving their trophies from the IRB for the International Player of the Year and 2013 Team of the Year (All Blacks) respectively. A presentation will take place at the conclusion of the match.

Meanwhile, Crusaders Head Coach Todd Blackadder has made seven changes to his starting line-up for the Stormers game. Wyatt Crockett will start at number one this week and Tim Perry moves to the bench. Luke Romano takes one of the starting lock positions alongside Sam Whitelock. Luke Whitelock takes the number 6 jersey from his eldest brother George, who is recovering from an adductor strain. And with Richie McCaw having just had surgery on a broken thumb, Matt Todd steps into the number 7 starting spot and Jordan Taufua will take a place on the bench.

In the backs, Willi Heinz will start at halfback this week and Andy Ellis will be ready to provide cover from the bench. Israel Dagg starts on one wing this week and Johnny McNicholl on the other. Nafi Tuitavake is recovering from a hamstring strain, which gives Tasman centre Kieron Fonotia the chance to make his Crusaders debut if he comes off the bench.

Crusaders team to play the Stormers: