All Blacks return as Crusaders head north for final pre‑season match

05 Feb 2026

The Crusaders are heading north this week to Takapuna Rugby Club at Onewa Domain to face the Blues in our second and final pre-season match before the regular season begins next week.

It’s another important chance to build combinations, test depth and give our Auckland-based Crusaders whānau a first look at this group in action.

This game will be played in two 40-minute halves, and, just like last week in Timaru, the Crusaders will roll out two separate teams of 15 for each half.

That approach means plenty of minutes for the wider squad and a good look at how different combinations shape up under pressure.

The team will get a good boost with some All Blacks back in the mix – captain David Havili returns to the midfield and will lead the first-half side from second five, bringing his calm head and experience to a young backline.

Up front, George Bell gets the start at hooker, while fans will be excited to see Leicester Fainga’anuku back in red and black on the left wing, ready to light up the backs.

George Bower will join the action in the second half at prop and Christian Lio-Willie takes over the captaincy from Havili for the second spell at Number 8.

There will be a special moment for halfback Noah Hotham, who returns after fracturing his leg in September just minutes into an All Blacks test against the Springboks. This run against the Blues is another important step in his journey back.

First-five Taha Kemara is looking forward to having him back in the fold.

“We've played our whole lives together and spent a bit of time together as well off the field. Both of us have had quite a few injuries the last few months, and he's obviously got back now and he's back on his feet, which is awesome. With our combination, we're just working hard on the field and hopefully we do get the opportunity when it comes to the season,” Kemara says.

Out wide, the combination of Sevu Reece on the right wing and Chay Fihaki at fullback shapes as a real highlight for fans. Their speed, instinct and kicking game will be a great watch and should give the Crusaders plenty of spark on counterattack.

Kick-off is at 3pm, with gates opening at 2pm.

It’s shaping up to be a great afternoon for fans to soak up an afternoon of rugby up north.

Crusaders First Half XV

Finlay Brewis

George Bell

Seb Calder

Antonio Shalfoon

Jamie Hannah

Dom Gardiner

Ethan Blackadder

Johnny Lee

Kyle Preston