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The Crusaders welcome back All Blacks centres All Blacks midfielders Jack Goodhue and David Havili as they get some relief from their crippling injury toll for this game against Moana Pasifika.
Lock Quinten Strange, prop Finlay Brewis and outside backs Macca Springer and Melani Nanai also return to the 23 to face the cellar dwellars.
Goodhue has overcome his groin strain from round two to play at No.12, alongside Richie Moúnga in his 100th Super Rugby match.
Nanai, a former Blues player, is set for his Crusaders debut.
The Crusaders injury list is now at 11, down from 17.
Sam Whitelock (hand), fullback Will Jordan (concussion related illness), lock Zach Gallagher (hamstring), Oli Jager (neck), Cullen Grace (shoulder) and Ethan Blackadder (calf) are expected back soon after next week’s bye round.
Flyhalf Richie Moúnga will play his 100th game for the team.
With the exception of prop Joe ‘Apikotoa being promoted to the starting side and Isi Tu’ungafasi looking to make his second cap for the year off the bench, Moana coach Aaron Mauger has named an identical squad to his side that lost to the Highlanders last week.
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Game Information
Venue: Orangetheory Stadium, Christchurch Kick-off: 5.05pm (AEST) Streaming: Stan Sport
Betting: Crusaders $1.02, Waratahs $14 – odds via PlayUp
Teams
Crusaders (1-15): Joe Moody, Codie Taylor, Tamaiti Williams, Quinten Strange, Dom Gardiner, Sione Havili-Talitui, Corey Kellow, Christian Lio-Willie, Mitchell Drummond, Richie Mo’unga, Macca Springer, Jack Goodhue, Leicester Fainga’anuku, Will Gualter, Fergus Burke.
Replacements: Brodie McAlister, Finlay Brewis, Seb Calder, Jamie Hannah, Tom Christie, Willi Heinz, David Havili, Melani Nanai.
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Moana Pasifika (1-15): Ezekiel Lindnemuth, Samiuela Moli, Joe ‘Apikotoa, Michael Curry, Samuel Slade, Miracle Faiilagi, Alamanda Motuga, Solomone Funaki (c), Ereatara Enari, Lincoln McClutchie, Neria Fomai, Danny Toala, Levi Aumua, Timoci Tavatavanawai, William Havili.
Replacements: Luteru Tolai, Abraham Pole, Isi Tu’ungafasi, Mike McKee, Jonah Mau’u Manu Paea, D’Angelo Leuila, Fine Inisi.
