Head Coach Scott Robertson has made a number of changes to his side, with All Blacks Ethan Blackadder, Richie Mo'unga, Braydon Ennor and George Bridge all to sit out the Waratahs match. Meanwhile, David Havili and Will Jordan both return from a week off and several players are in line to get an opportunity off the bench in Sydney.
Tom Christie's inclusion in the run-on side is the only change to the forward pack this week, while Bryn Hall and Fergus Burke are the starting 9-10 combination. Havili and Jordan resume their roles at second five-eighth and fullback respectively, with Havili's injection in the midfield meaning Jack Goodhue will move to Centre, following his impressive return from injury against the Rebels.
One change to our match day 23, Zach Gallagher has been ruled out of the match. He injured his left shoulder [AC joint] when playing last week’s game against the Melbourne Rebels.
It was hoped he would be available this week but he has not made sufficient progress to play, however it is expected he will become available for next week’s game.
Zach's withdrawal from the side means Dominic Gardiner has an opportunity to start, and Hamish Dalzell (who has joined the side in Sydney) is on the bench.
The Crusaders will also welcome back Sione Havili Talitui from injury to face the Waratahs, with the Mako loose forward to make his return via the bench. Meanwhile Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Simon Hickey and Dallas McLeod will all get game time this week, having also been named in the reserves.
Kick off in the Crusaders match against the Waratahs is 7:05pm NZT, Saturday 30th April at Leichhardt Oval in Sydney. The match will be televised live on Sky Sport.