Super Rugby Pacific: Crusaders name blockbuster lineup for the Blues final

The Crusaders have named a powerful starting lineup for the much anticipated inaugural Super Rugby Pacific final against the Blues at Eden Park on Saturday.

Coach Scott Robertson would have been relieved at the news of rampant Argentine Pablo Matera being cleared to play after two yellow cards in the semi-final against the Chiefs had the back row sent off.

Adding to the Matera news is the injury return of All Blacks Sam Whitelock, Cody Taylor and David Havili, making for a blockbuster Crusaders lineup for the showpiece game between the competition’s two best teams.

Robertson is grateful for the eight-day turnaround after playing their semi-final on Friday last week, allowing an extra day for recovery.

“Post game on Saturday morning there was a good, long email from the medical group around the casualty ward, but the extra day has been superb for us,” Robertson told Stuff

“We have freshened up, those guys have trained well all week. They are back to as well as we would hope.”

There is quality across the park for the All Black-laden Crusaders side, with quality players such as Braydon Ennor and George Bridge unlucky to be left out of the starting side.

Captain Scott Barrett understands the disappointment, but the focus remains on claiming the silverware against a talented Blues outfit.

“Both those boys have been disappointed,” Barrett said.

“We stopped training to go and watch the live announcement [on Monday]. You could see the disappointment. Naturally, as teammates, you get around them and quickly support them.

“They’re obviously gutted. Bridgy has been there a few years, and Braydon has been in and out…but they quickly changed their focus to this weekend and what’s required there.”

Robertson has thrown his support