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BNZ Crusaders team named for Super Rugby opener at Eden Park

Details Published: 14 February 2019

The BNZ Crusaders will kick off their 2019 Investec Super Rugby campaign this Saturday night, when they face the Blues at Eden Park.

Head Coach Scott Robertson named his team today for the match, which will be captained by Matt Todd in the absence of regular captain Sam Whitelock. Ryan Crotty has been named vice-captain.

Photo Credit: Photosport

The team features 10 players in the starting line up who were part of the All Blacks environment in 2018, including Test debutants RIchie Mo'unga at first five-eighth and George Bridge on the left wing. 20-year-old Will Jordan has also been named in the match day side, and could earn his first Super Rugby cap if called on to take the field.

"After a long pre-season, there is a lot of excitement among the group to get our 2019 campaign underway." Robertson said.

"The team is refreshed and eager to get back into their work following two solid pre-season games. The Blues present a big challenge for us first up on Saturday night, which is a fantastic way to start the season."



The BNZ Crusaders versus Blues match is due to kick off at 7:35pm, Saturday 16 February, at Eden Park in Auckland.



BNZ Crusaders team to play the Blues:

1. Joe Moody RESERVES 2. Andrew Makalio 16. Ben Funnell 3. Owen Franks 17. Tim Perry 4. Scott Barrett 18. Michael Alaalatoa 5. Quinten Strange 19. Luke Romano 6. Jordan Taufua 20. Tom Sanders 7. Matt Todd (C) 21. Mitchell Drummond 8. Whetukamokamo Douglas 22. Mitchell Hunt 9. Bryn Hall 23. Will Jordan* 10. Richie Mo'unga 11. George Bridge 12. Ryan Crotty (VC) 13. Braydon Ennor 14. Manasa Mataele 15. David Havili



*denotes Investec Super Rugby debut

The BNZ Crusaders first home game is next Saturday night against the Hurricanes. For tickets, visit Ticket Rocket.