The Crusaders have named their line-up for Saturday’s Super Rugby Pacific final, welcoming back Tamaiti Williams from injury, while unfortunately losing Chay Fihaki.
Concerns had arisen that Williams, weighing in at 142kg, would not be fit for the crucial match following a knee injury that kept him out of the semi-final victory against the Blues, which ended 21-14.
After being spotted on crutches post the win against the Reds, Williams managed to complete training this week and replaces George Bower in the starting loosehead position.
Chay Fihaki of the Crusaders is taken down by Hoskins Sotutu of the Blues. Getty
“He is all set to go. He was almost ready last week,” said Crusaders coach Rob Penney during a press conference in Christchurch on Wednesday.
“It’s a real advantage to have such a strong squad. George (Bower) has performed admirably.
“It’s unfortunate for him not to be starting, but Tamaiti has fought his way back into contention, and now he’s been given the chance.”
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The only other alteration to the starting XV sees Macca Springer stepping in for Fihaki on the wing.
Fihaki’s absence comes after a head collision with Blues No.8 Hoskins Sotutu.
“Chay has been exceptional for us, definitely one of the standout players in numerous respects. His mid-season competition with Macca was a highlight, leading to many discussions around selection,” Penney noted.
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“Chay earned his spot and demonstrated his talent, while Macca has been putting in the hard work behind the scenes. We always tell our players to stay ready for their opportunity, and now that moment has arrived. He’s prepared.”
Springer made headlines back in March when he became just the second player in Super Rugby history to score five tries in one match against the Force.
On the other hand, the Chiefs have kept their starting XV unchanged after fullback Shaun Stevenson passed concussion protocols.
However, there are two adjustments on the bench, with prop Aidan Ross and outside back Etene Nanai-Seturo coming in for Jared Proffit and Gideon Wrampling, respectively.
Ross, who hails from Gosford, is set to join the Reds next season and will be eligible for Wallabies selection ahead of the British and Irish Lions series.
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt will announce his squad for the upcoming match against Fiji in Sydney this Thursday.
Chay Fihaki of the Crusaders is tackled by Hoskins Sotutu of the Blues. Getty
Crusaders (15-1): Will Jordan, Sevu Reece, Braydon Ennor, David Havili (c), Macca Springer, Rivez Reihana, Noah Hotham, Christian Lio-Willie, Tom Christie, Ethan Blackadder, Antonio Shalfoon, Scott Barrett, Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor, Tamaiti Williams.
Reserves: George Bell, George Bower, Seb Calder, Jamie Hannah, Cullen Grace, Kyle Preston, James O’Connor, Dallas McLeod
Chiefs (15-1): Shaun Stevenson, Emoni Narawa, Daniel Rona, Quinn Tupaea, Leroy Carter, Damian McKenzie, Cortez Ratima, Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson (c), Samipeni Finau, Tupou Vaa’i, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, George Dyer, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Ollie Norris
Reserves: Brodie McAlister, Aidan Ross, Reuben O’Neill, Jimmy Tupou, Kaylum Boshier, Xavier Roe, Josh Jacomb, Etene Nanai-Seturo
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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