Noah Hotham and Quin Strange are both back from injury and will return to the bench for this week’s clash against the Blues on Saturday 22 March at Eden Park.

It’s Quin’s first game of the 2025 season and Hotham’s second after injuring his ankle in round one against the Hurricanes in just the eighth minute.

"It’s great to have both men back,” says Head Coach Rob Penney.

“Noah is excited about returning and the competition at 9 is going to be intense."

The forward pack remains the same as last week, except for Cullen Grace returning to blindside with Corey Kellow moved to the bench.

There are a few more changes in the backs this week.

The inside back trio of Kyle Preston at 9, Taha Kemara at 10 and captain David Havili remains unchanged.

Sevu Reece, who now sits in second on the all-time Super Rugby try scoring list, will jump back over to the left wing, with Chay Fihaki returning to the right wing.

Dallas McLeod will start at outside centre, with vice-captain Will Jordan at fullback.

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Our last game v the Blues

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Penney says the Blues are a quality side and so far this season, their matches have been decided by fine margins.

“Results wise they’ll be disappointed, and they’ll be searching for a win, but they are playing well.”

When asked if there is any empathy for a Blues side who are in a similar position to where the Crusaders were last year: “I don’t think anyone likes to see people being delt a negative hand of any sort, we are talking about the Blues, though,” Penney says.

“Without a doubt, the rivalry is still there. It’s historic and long may it continue, it’s one of the greats.”

Crusaders team to face the Blues: