Team Naming: 50 up for Blackadder v Brumbies

28 May 2025

Ethan Blackadder is making his return to the field this Friday night against the Brumbies in Canberra, just in time for his 50th Crusaders appearance.

"I can't wait to get out there on Friday; any game of footy is good fun so I'm looking forward to it,” says Blackadder.

"One game is special, so to run out there in that jersey 50 times is extra special."

Blackadder will line up alongside Tom Christie at openside flanker, while Christian Lio-Willie retains his spot at number 8.

Codie Taylor will start at hooker and will take the captaincy role with Dave Havili being rested this week.

"Dave has had a massive campaign and is a bit knocked up after last week; this is an opportunity to give him a freshen up and give Levi some minutes," says Head Coach Rob Penney.

George Bower and Tamaiti Williams will complete the front row, while Scott Barrett and Antonio Shalfoon will be paired at lock.

Noah Hotham is back starting at halfback, while Rivez Reihana will again start at 10.

All-time Super Rugby top try scorer Sevu Reece will be looking to add to his 66 tries on the left wing, with support from Chay Fihaki on the right.

Dallas McLeod and Levi Aumua will control the midfield at centre, with Johnny McNicholl supporting at fullback.

"The Brumbies are very capable side, they've got strengths all over the park and their DNA hasn’t changed a great deal over the years; they can beat you up, up front and capitalise when you give them penalties and then when they're in the 22 they're ruthless,” says Penney.

Kick-off is Friday 30 May, 9.35pm NZT.

Crusaders team to face the Brumbies: