Saifoloi to Start v Highlanders: Team Naming

23 Apr 2025

It's Anzac Weekend Round and the Crusaders are heading down to Dunedin for a southern derby against the Highlanders – the first South Island match-up since preseason.

The Crusaders are coming straight off a physical clash against the Blues last week, and straight into another hearty rivalry.

"This string of local derbies is brutal, but the boys are embracing it,” says Head Coach Rob Penney.

There are seven changes to the starting line-up this week.

The first being Otago provincial player and All Black George Bower at prop alongside Codie Taylor and Fletcher Newell in the front row.

Scott Barrett will again start at lock; this week paired with Jamie Hannah.

21-year-old Xavier Saifoloi gets the nod to start at blindside.

"He's one that's trained the house down the last couple of months, he's got an opportunity to start and it's a great thrill to watch a young guy like him develop and start to flourish."

Tom Christie has replaced Ethan Blackadder at openside as Blackadder's been ruled out with a hamstring injury, and Christian Lio-Willie will complete the forward pack at number 8.

Noah Hotham and Taha Kemara will keep their place in the 9/10 pairing.

Sevu Reece will jump back over to the right wing this week, making way for Macca Springer to start on the left wing.

Captain David Havili will start at inside centre, with support from Dallas McLeod on the outside.

Will Jordan will yet again round out the backline at fullback.

"It was a tough gig on Friday night against the Blues – they were impressive, and we had to dig deep – we're expecting no different this week as we head down to the Highlanders," Penney says.

"They'll be hurting, and they'll be up for red and black travelling south because they always are."

Crusaders team to face the Highlanders: