ROUND 16 TEAM NAMING: Sevu Reece set for century under the roof in last regular season match of 2026

27 May 2026

In front of another sell‑out crowd under the roof, the Crusaders will take on competition leaders the Hurricanes on Friday 29 May, with a home qualifying final still within reach as the regular season comes to a close.

The night will belong to Sevu Reece, who is set to bring up his 100th match in red and black, a milestone that carries deep personal meaning.

“Honestly, I just can’t find the words for it,” Reece says.

“This whole week I’ve been looking back to that Fijian kid who first came down to Christchurch just to train as injury cover. Getting the chance to play one game was a blessing in itself, and now getting to do it 100 times is just amazing.”

The winger knew the milestone was coming early in the season and made it a clear focus.

“I knew the 100th game was around the corner, so I had to do everything right and get the body right. It’s very special, not just for me but for my family as well.”

For head coach Rob Penney, Reece’s century is a fitting reflection of his influence on and off the field.

“It’s a special occasion for Sevu and his family. Week to week he’s always leading metres, high‑speed metres and intensity. He’s got X‑factor with work rate, and that’s been a hallmark of him since he’s been here. He’s much loved around the group and a crowd favourite for obvious reasons.”

The match also carries added significance off the field, with the fixture doubling as the Crusaders’ Men’s Mental Health Match. The occasion highlights the importance of checking in, starting conversations, and using the platform of rugby to shine a light on an issue that affects many.

“We’re people before we’re athletes or coaches, and the human aspect is massively important,” says assistant coach Brad Mooar.

“We all have our own challenges and stresses behind the scenes. The more we talk about that, the better. Talk it out rather than tough it out. I’d certainly rather be in a conversation like this and a discussion with people about mental health, how they’re feeling, what’s a challenge at the moment, than standing at someone’s funeral and wishing I did talk about it.”

There’s also the potential for a new chapter to begin from the bench, with Cooper Roberts named among the reserves and in line for a possible Super Rugby Pacific debut. The young midfielder’s inclusion caps a resilient season after an injury‑interrupted start.

“It’s been a long time coming,” Roberts says.

“I was injured for most of the season, so to get this opportunity in the last round, under the roof, I’m pretty stoked and pretty grateful. I’ve never played in front of that many people before, so it’s going to be pretty cool.”

Penney says the occasion will be special for Roberts and his family if the opportunity comes.

“It’s great to have him fit and available and to unleash him on Friday night in front of a full crowd. Hopefully it’s the first of many for him,” says Penney.

The Crusaders will be without Will Jordan for the remainder of the season after the fullback sustained a calf injury against the Chiefs, adding to a lengthy injury list the squad has managed throughout the campaign.

Reece believes the group’s depth remains a strength heading into finals.

“That’s something we pride ourselves on. It’s a massive loss with what Will can do, but that’s rugby. We’ve got guys ready to step up and we’re fully focused on this Friday,” Reece says.

Up front, George Bower, Codie Taylor and Fletcher Newell anchor the scrum, while Antonio Shalfoon and Jamie Hannah combine in the locking department. Dom Gardiner, Ethan Blackadder and Christian Lio‑Willie round out a mobile, physical loose forward trio.

Noah Hotham and Rivez Reihana will steer the side from the halves, with David Havili and Dallas McLeod continuing their settled midfield partnership. Chay Fihaki and Johnny McNicholl join Reece in the back three.

With plenty on the line, a milestone to celebrate and a message that matters beyond the scoreboard, Friday night under the roof shapes as one to remember.

Crusaders team to face the Hurricanes: