Crusaders team to play the Highlanders

Apr 9 • General News, Super Rugby • 1498 Views • Comments Off on Crusaders team to play the Highlanders

Photo: @HowzitJax

Todd Blackadder has named an unchanged backline to face the Highlanders this weekend.  The team has returned from South Africa to host the Highlanders at AMI Stadium, 7:35pm on Saturday.

 

There are three changes in the forwards, with Joe Moody and Owen Franks the starting props this week, and Alex Hodgman and Nepo Laulala providing cover from the bench. Jimmy Tupou starts at lock this week alongside Sam Whitelock, and Scott Barrett is in the reserves.
Also taking a spot on the bench is Dan Carter, who has returned from paternity leave.

 

This will be Owen Franks’ 100th game for the Crusaders, which coach Todd Blackadder says is a remarkable achievement that will be celebrated by the whole team.

“Everyone will want to make this a special occasion for Owen, because he gives so much to this team.  He leads the way with his professionalism and dedication and provides an outstanding mentor to other members of the team.  He gives 100 percent every single day, both in his preparation and when he plays,” Blackadder said.
“I know that Owen will approach this game the same way as he approaches every game, but we will take some time afterwards to mark this important milestone with him and show our appreciation for the immense contribution he makes to this team.”

 

Crusaders team to play the Highlanders:

 

1 Joe Moody  

RESERVES

 
2 Ben Funnell 16 Codie Taylor
3 Owen Franks 17 Alex Hodgman
4 Jimmy Tupou 18 Nepo Laulala
5 Sam Whitelock 19 Scott Barrett
6 Jordan Taufua 20 Richie McCaw
7 Matt Todd 21 Mitchell Drummond
8 Kieran Read (c) 22 Dan Carter
9 Andy Ellis 23 Nafi Tuitavake
10 Colin Slade    
11 Nemani Nadolo    
12 Ryan Crotty    
13 Kieron Fonotia    
14 David Havili    
15 Israel Dagg    

 

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