ROUND 4 TEAM NAMING: A change up in the backline and a potential debut vs the Blues
The Crusaders are heading north this week to face the Blues with a bit more wind in the sails after that hard‑earned win over the Chiefs.
But this week is a different kind of test – the Blues will be hurting after that last‑minute loss to the Brumbies, and they’ll be desperate to make a statement at home at Eden Park.
This week also marks Club Rugby Round – a chance to shine a spotlight on the all-important grassroots of our game. Our boys will be wearing their club socks with pride out on the pitch.
Rob Penney says the group managed to enjoy the lift from last week, but the tone quickly shifted.
“Early in the week was awesome. It feels today like we’ve got our game face on again. One win doesn’t make a season, but the energy was great and everyone’s done a great job keeping things grounded as we look forward to heading up to Eden Park,” he says.
There’s plenty of interest in this week’s selections, especially with Taha Kemara moving to fullback. He’s had time training there for the last couple of seasons and brings a calmness and confidence to the role.
“He’s got all the attributes you need. He’s very fit, quick, great in the air and on the ground, and he’s got a strong kicking game. We’re really comfortable with him back there,” Penney says.
The return of Rivez Reihana at 10 means Taha shifts to 15, giving the side strong playmaking depth across the backline.
In the forwards, Codie Taylor returns with George Bell sidelined for a couple of weeks.
George Bower continues at loosehead and brings real stability there while Fletcher Newell anchors the tighthead side.
The locking combination of Antonio Shalfoon and Jamie Hannah continues after both impressed in Hamilton. Penney has been especially pleased with how the younger members of the squad are taking ownership of the jersey.
“There are a lot of young men really starting to put their own stamp on the organisation. It’s pleasing for their confidence and belief, but also for the long‑term benefits we’ll all get,” he says.
In the loose forwards, Dom Gardiner keeps building strong performances on the blindside, Ethan Blackadder is back at openside and brings that relentless edge, while Christian Lio‑Willie continues to develop nicely at No. 8.
Noah Hotham and Rivez Reihana combine once again in the halves.
Sevu Reece continues on the left wing, bringing his trademark strike power, while captain David Havili and Leicester Fainga’anuku combine again in the midfield.
Chay Fihaki keeps building confidence on the right wing after another strong shift last week.
The coaches have gone with a 6–2 bench split to help manage the workload of the pack and to keep bodies fresh in what’s expected to be an extremely physical contest.
“We know what’s coming, the Blues play a power game. The 6–2 split lets us manage the workloads of our back‑five forwards and keeps the pack fresher through the 80,” says Penney.
On the bench, Manumaua Letiu, Finlay Brewis and Seb Calder cover the front row.
Corey Kellow provides loose forward cover, while Kyle Preston, Xavier Saifoloi and Dallas McLeod round out the replacements.
A potential Crusaders debut could be on the cards for Canterbury lock Will Tucker, who joins the bench.
“He’s been awesome. It’ll be a proud moment for him and his family if the opportunity arises. He’s trained the house down, fitted in beautifully and is well respected,” Penney says.
The Blues will be stung from last week, the Crusaders are building momentum, and it sets up a fierce early‑season contest in Auckland.
Kick-off is Saturday 7 March 7.05pm.
Crusaders team to face the Blues:
- George Bower
- Codie Taylor
- Fletcher Newell
- Antonio Shalfoon
- Jamie Hannah
- Dom Gardiner
- Ethan Blackadder
- Christian Lio‑Willie
- Noah Hotham
- Rivez Reihana
- Sevu Reece
- David Havili (C)
- Leicester Fainga’anuku
- Chay Fihaki
- Taha Kemara
Reserves: 16. Manumaua Letiu 17. Finlay Brewis 18. Seb Calder 19. Will Tucker 20. Corey Kellow 21. Kyle Preston 22. Xavier Saifoloi 23. Dallas McLeod
Players unavailable for selection due to injury:
Tahlor CAHILL: Shoulder, 1-3 weeks
George BELL: Foot, 2-4 weeks
Johnny MCNICHOLL: Hamstring, 4-6 weeks
Liam JACK: Hamstring, 4-6 weeks
Maloni KUNAWAVE: Hamstring, 4-6 weeks
Macca SPRINGER: Quad, 4-6 weeks
Cooper ROBERTS: Stress fracture (fibula), 4-6 weeks
Cullen GRACE: Knee, Unclear
Mitch DRUMMOND: Concussion, Unclear
Kershawl SYKES-MARTIN: Hip, Unclear