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Crusaders lock Sam Whitelock and Blues double code hopper Roger Tuivasa-Sheck are the big absentees in the rematch of last year’s final. Join The Roar for live scores from 5.05pm.
Whitelock hasn’t recovered from the Achilles injury suffered against the Chiefs last month while RTS is fit but can’t even get a place on the bench.
Jack Goodhue returns to the Crusaders 23 and will come off the bench after missing last week’s game with a knee injury.
Akira Ioane will make his 100th appearance for the Blues from the bench.
Leon MacDonald has continued his preference for Harry Plummer at No.12 in a midfield partnership with All Blacks centre Rieko Ioane ignoring the claims of RTS who played at 12 against Moana Pasifika last week.
Game Information
Venue: Orangetheory Stadium, Christchurch Kick-off: 5:05pm (AEST) Streaming: Stan Sport Odds: Blues Crusaders $1.42 Blues $2.90 – odds via Playup
Teams
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Crusaders (1-15): Joe Moody, Codie Taylor, Tamaiti Williams, Scott Barrett (c), Quinten Strange, Christian Lio-Willie, Tom Christie, Cullen Grace, Mitchell Drummond, Richie Mo’unga, Leicester Fainga’anuku, David Havili, Braydon Ennor, Dallas McLeod, Will Jordan.
Replacements: Brodie McAlister, Kershawl Sykes-Martin, Oliver Jager, Zach Gallagher, Sione Havili Talitui, Noah Hotham, Fergus Burke, Jack Goodhue.
Blues (1-15): Ofa Tuungafasi,Ricky Riccitelli, Marcel Renata, Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Darry, Adrian Choat, Dalton Papalii, Hoskins Sotutu, Finlay Christie, Beauden Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Harry Plummer, Rieko Ioane, Mark Telea, Zarn Sullivan.
Replacements: Kurt Eklund, Jordan Lay, James Lay, Cam Suafoa, Akira Ioane, Sam Nock, Bryce Heem, AJ Lam.
