SUPER RUGBY, SEMI FINAL 1, 2023
ORANGETHEORY STADIUM, CHRISTCHURCH,FRIDAY 16th JUNE
In a clash that promises to be a rugby spectacle, the Canterbury Crusaders are poised to face off against the Auckland Blues in Super Rugby Semi-Final 1 at the iconic Orangetheory Stadium in Christchurch. This highly anticipated encounter between two formidable teams is set to ignite the passion of fans worldwide.
The Crusaders have suffered a string of unfortunate injuries leading up to this crucial match. Ethan Blackadder, the talented All Blacks loose forward, strained his quad within minutes of his return to the field last week, abruptly ending his season. Alongside Blackadder, 12 other Crusaders are unavailable due to injury, while three others are tied up with the NZ under-20s. Among the casualties is lock Zach Gallagher, who sustained a calf injury in the previous game against the Drua. As a result, captain Scott Barrett and Quinten Strange remain as the last men standing from the original group of five locks named for the 2023 season. Notably, Sam Whitelock, who hopes to don the red and black jersey one last time before departing for France, continues to recover from an Achilles injury.
Despite the significant injury toll, Crusaders coach Scott Robertson has named an unchanged forward pack for the first time this season, demonstrating his unwavering belief in their abilities. The team composition remains relatively consistent with the lineup that emerged victorious against the Blues in Christchurch just a month ago. The absence of Joe Moody, David Havili, and Cullen Grace, who suffered season-ending injuries, marks the main differences from their previous encounter. Nevertheless, the Crusaders maintain an impressive record, having won 17 out of their last 18 matches against the Blues and securing 30 victories out of 42 since the competition’s inception in 1996.
Meanwhile, the Blues, led by coach Leon MacDonald, approach this formidable challenge with determination and confidence. Their reinforced lineup features the return of All Blacks wing Caleb Clarke to the starting lineup, accompanied by the tenacious loosie Adrian Choat on the bench. The night holds special significance for Reiko Ioane, as he reaches the milestone of earning his 100th cap for the Blues. Ioane’s performance will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping his team’s fortunes.
As the Crusaders and Blues prepare to lock horns, fans eagerly anticipate an enthralling battle. Both teams possess exceptional talent and a burning desire to emerge victorious in this playoff encounter. The stage is set for a night of intense rugby action, where the Crusaders aim to extend their dominance while the Blues strive to create an upset and etch their names in Super Rugby history.
Crusaders: Will Jordan, Dallas McLeod, Braydon Ennor, Jack Goodhue, Leicester Fainga’anuku, Richie Mo’unga, Mitchell Drummond, Christian Lio-Willie, Tom Christie, Sione Havili-Talitui, Quinten Strange, Scott Barrett (capt), Oli Jager, Codie Taylor, Tamaiti Williams.
Reserves: Brodie McAlister, Kershawl Sykes-Martin, Reuben O’Neill, Dominic Gardiner, Corey Kellow, Willi Heinz, Fergus Burke, Chay Fihaki.
Blues: Zarn Sullivan, Mark Telea, Rieko Ioane, Bryce Heem, Caleb Clarke, Beauden Barrett, Fin Christie; Hoskins Sotutu, Dalton Papalii (capt), Akira Ioane, James Tucker, Tom Robinson, Nepo Laulala, Ricky Riccitelli, Ofa Tuungafasi.
Reserves: Kurt Eklund, Jordan Lay, Marcel Renata, Cameron Suafoa, Adrian Choat, Sam Nock, Harry Plummer, Stephen Perofeta.
PREDICTION.
The coaches who both have played for the Crusaders in the past will join forces after the World Cup as part of the new All Black coaching group. Rangi McDonald and Razor Robertson will this weekend go head to head with their teams in the battle to play the winner of the Chiefs v Brumbies game .
No doubt the Auckland mob will throw everything at the Crusaders in this do or die semi-final. They have some classy backs and the Crusaders are loosing players every week. Do I think the Crusaders can win? Yes I do. The weather will be cold and that leads to mistakes. Ritchie Mo’unga will be looking for field position, and with Faiga’anuku hungry for work at the moment they might just sneak home. Should be a great game. Do not miss it.
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