The Crusaders are ready to take their first preseason game of 2025 out to the country, kicking off at 3.30pm against The Blues this Friday in Kirwee.
The score from a preseason game is not traditionally the focus, but with the historic rivalry between us and the visitors it’s not too surprising over 3,000 fans will be in attendance, possibly a record amount for a Crusaders preseason game. An incredible showcase of passion from our fans who are ready to see the boys in red and black back on the field.
Powerhouse Ethan Blackadder will captain the Crusader side for the first time and is fizzing to get out and play at a grass roots venue “I live for games like this,” he said.
”Going back to the country – that’s what it’s all about. Going out into the community and putting on a show for them.”
Blackadder will play openside flanker tomorrow and Cullen Grace on blindside, with newly contracted Antonio Shalfoon in lock paired with Tahlor Cahill.
Standing strong in the forwards is Finlay Brewis, Ioane Moananu and Seb Calder.
Noah Hotham and Taha Kemara start the backs off at 9 and 10 respectively. Dallas McLeod and Levi Aumua are in the centre positions, with Macca Springer and Chay Fihaki running the wing.
Isaac Hutchinson who received Canterbury Rookie of the Year for last year’s NPC season finishes off the starting line up in full back.
20 minute quarters and rolling subs will give plenty of opportunity to see the remaining twenty named players on the bench have a hit out against last year’s Super Rugby Pacific champions. Amongst them will be rookie Xavier Saifoloi, beast of the bronco Kyle Preston and stalwart of the game James O’Connor.