Crusaders Face Blues in Super Rugby Semifinal Clash
All Black Injury Alters Christchurch Lineup
Christchurch prepares for a high-stakes Super Rugby semifinal as the Crusaders host the Blues, with a crucial spot in the final on the line. A late injury to key player Tamaiti Williams has forced a reshuffle in the Crusaders’ forward pack.
Crusaders Adjust to Prop Absence
The Crusaders will be without All Black prop Tamaiti Williams due to a knee injury sustained in recent play. George Bower will step into the starting side, marking the only change to the Crusaders’ run-on XV. Seb Calder has been added to the bench to provide cover at prop.
“He hasn’t been able to make it into this week’s group. He obviously copped a bit of a knee bang so he’s not in the group,”
—Rob Penney, Crusaders coach
Coach Rob Penney expressed confidence in Bower’s ability to fill the void, noting his recent strong performances. The only other alteration to the squad sees Jamie Hannah replace Tahlor Cahill on the bench.
A victory for the Crusaders would secure them home advantage for next week’s final, played in Christchurch. Super Rugby attendance figures have been steadily rising, with a 15% increase in average crowds across the competition this season, demonstrating renewed fan engagement. Rugby.com.au
Blues Make Minimal Changes for Away Test
The Blues have opted for a largely unchanged lineup following their successful quarterfinal win against the Chiefs. Zarn Sullivan will start at fullback, replacing Corey Evans, who has been removed from the match-day 23.
“It’s going to be a tough game and we need to be as accurate as possible,”
—Vern Cotter, Blues coach
Coach Vern Cotter emphasized the importance of accuracy and preparation as the Blues aim to replicate their winning form on the road. He believes his team is peaking at the right time of year.
Team Lineups
Crusaders: 1. George Bower 2. Codie Taylor 3. Fletcher Newell 4. Scott Barrett 5. Antonio Shalfoon 6. Ethan Blackadder 7. Tom Christie 8. Christian Lio-Willie 9. Noah Hotham 10. Rivez Reihana 11. Sevu Reece 12. David Havili (c) 13. Braydon Ennor 14. Chay Fihaki 15. Will Jordan.
Bench: 16. George Bell 17. Kershawl Sykes-Martin 18. Seb Calder 19. Jamie Hannah 20. Cullen Grace 21. Kyle Preston 22. James O’Connor 23. Dallas McLeod.
Blues: 1. Joshua fusitu’a 2. Ricky riccitelli 3. Marcel renata 4. Patrick Tuipulotu 5. Laghlan mcwhannel 6. Adrian Choat 7. Dalton Papali’i 8. Barrett 11. Caleb Clarke 12. Aj lam 13. Rieko iOane 14. Mark Tele’a 15. Zarn Sullivan.
Bench: 16. Kurt Eklund 17. Jordan Lay 18. Angus Ta’avao 19. Josh Beehre 20. Anton Segner 21. Sam Nock 22. Harry Plummer 23. Cole Forbes.
The match promises a fierce contest between two of Super Rugby’s most formidable teams, with the winner advancing to the championship decider.