Publications
Partners
Christchurch - Crusaders captain Richie McCaw will not start against the Sharks in Nelson this Saturday, but three other key players could return as Super Rugby’s most successful team begins their quest for an eighth title.
According to the allblacks.com website, McCaw’s troublesome foot could potentially allow him to play, but it is unlikely he will be risked - especially considering the Crusaders have managed without their captain at times this season and have unearthed a quality replacement in Matt Todd.
The Crusaders outside division, who at least scored a point’s decision over a powerful Hurricanes backline, could be boosted by the return of three strike players.
Eight-try scorer Sean Maitland could return, with some hailing the wing as the form player of the competition before he was injured against the Stormers.
Brent Ward has essentially covered for Maitland, and in a manner which is typically Crusaders, has covered well although he does not possess the same attacking menace as the man he replaced.
Kahn Fotuali’i could also return, but the imperious form of likely All Blacks scrumhalf Andy Ellis means that while the Samoan international presents a good option, he will be on the bench.
Sonny Bill Williams could have played against the Hurricanes, but it was felt it was in the midfielder’s best interests to have another week’s rest after his boxing match and subsequent match against the Blues - where he injured his hip courtesy of a Benson Stanley tackle.
The return of Williams will benefit men either side of him, for while not a playmaker, his presence often attracts the defence allowing Dan Carter more space to play. Robbie Fruean, while consistent, is far more industrious when partnered with his fellow near-110kg juggernaut centre partner.
The Crusaders will train in Christchurch until Friday before heading to Nelson.
According to the allblacks.com website, McCaw’s troublesome foot could potentially allow him to play, but it is unlikely he will be risked - especially considering the Crusaders have managed without their captain at times this season and have unearthed a quality replacement in Matt Todd.
The Crusaders outside division, who at least scored a point’s decision over a powerful Hurricanes backline, could be boosted by the return of three strike players.
Eight-try scorer Sean Maitland could return, with some hailing the wing as the form player of the competition before he was injured against the Stormers.
Brent Ward has essentially covered for Maitland, and in a manner which is typically Crusaders, has covered well although he does not possess the same attacking menace as the man he replaced.
Kahn Fotuali’i could also return, but the imperious form of likely All Blacks scrumhalf Andy Ellis means that while the Samoan international presents a good option, he will be on the bench.
Sonny Bill Williams could have played against the Hurricanes, but it was felt it was in the midfielder’s best interests to have another week’s rest after his boxing match and subsequent match against the Blues - where he injured his hip courtesy of a Benson Stanley tackle.
The return of Williams will benefit men either side of him, for while not a playmaker, his presence often attracts the defence allowing Dan Carter more space to play. Robbie Fruean, while consistent, is far more industrious when partnered with his fellow near-110kg juggernaut centre partner.
The Crusaders will train in Christchurch until Friday before heading to Nelson.
