G’day and welcome to Wide World of Sports’ live coverage of the Super Rugby Pacific qualifying final between the Crusaders and the Reds.
The Reds have received a significant boost with the return of Wallabies captain Harry Wilson for today’s showdown in Christchurch, which is set to kick off at 5.05pm AEST.
Queensland fans had been anxiously awaiting updates on Wilson’s fitness after he sustained a knock to his arm, which forced him off the field late during their impressive 52-7 victory over the Drua at Suncorp Stadium.
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Harry Wilson of the Reds charges towards the try line to score. Getty
Fortunately, scans revealed that the influential No.8 has not suffered any serious injury.
“This is excellent news for us, and more so for Harry,” remarked Reds coach Les Kiss.
“He’s progressed well through the early part of the week and is a fierce competitor in encounters with the New Zealand teams and their formidable backrows.”
Kiss has also made the decision to promote Filipo Daugunu to the starting lineup in place of Tim Ryan on the left wing.
“The players are really buzzing about the opportunity to play in finals footy,” Kiss added.
“Our preparation has been spot on as we gear up to take on a well-rounded and challenging Crusaders side that is tough to beat on their home turf. Securing a win in Christchurch last year was a pivotal moment for the club.
“It provides us with valuable insights and confidence as we aim to put our best foot forward this Friday. In finals matches, it’s crucial to maintain focus right through to the final whistle.
“We’ve been doing well in that regard over the past month or so. It’s also important to have clear decision-making during those critical moments.”
Crusaders (2) vs Queensland Reds (5) at Apollo Projects Stadium, Christchurch (5.05pm kickoff AEST)
CRUSADERS (1-15): Tamaiti Williams, Codie Taylor, Fletcher Newell, Scott Barrett, Antonio Shalfoon, Ethan Blackadder, Tom Christie, Christian Lio-Willie, Noah Hotham, Rivez Reihana, Sevu Reece, David Havili (c), Braydon Ennor, Chay Fihaki, Will Jordan
Replacements: George Bell, George Bower, Kershawl Sykes-Martin, Tahlor Cahill, Cullen Grace, Kyle Preston, James O’Connor, Dallas McLeod
REDS (1-15): Sef Fa’agase, Richie Asiata, Zane Nonggorr, Josh Canham, Ryan Smith, Joe Brial, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, Tate McDermott (c), Tom Lynagh, Filipo Daugunu, Hunter Paisami, Josh Flook, Lachie Anderson, Jock Campbell
Replacements: Josh Nasser, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Nick Bloomfield, Angus Blyth, John Bryant, Kalani Thomas, Dre Pakeho, Tim Ryan
Referee: Paul Williams
Assistant referees: Angus Mabey, Mike Winter
TMO: Richard Kelly
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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