Crusaders team to face the Reds

The Crusaders have confirmed their matchday 23 to take on the Reds, with a couple of injury‑forced changes but a welcome boost in leadership as captain David Havili returns. 

Will Jordan has been ruled out after pulling up with calf tightness earlier in the week.  

 Head Coach Rob Penney says the decision was made early, with the long view in mind. 

“Will came in on Monday with a wee bit of stiffness in his calf,” says Penney.  

“He tried to get going, but it just wasn’t worth pushing him. He’s had a big workload, and this is just an unfortunate set of circumstances. He’ll get the chance to freshen up.” 

With Jordan unavailable, Johnny McNicholl comes into the starting side at fullback, marking a significant milestone in his return from a long and demanding rehab journey. 

McNicholl has spent months sidelined after suffering a serious hamstring injury that required surgery, before another setback delayed his comeback. 

Penney says McNicholl’s experience and competitiveness make him a valuable asset, particularly at this stage of the season. 

“It’s multi‑layered,” says Penney.  

“He’s very experienced, he’s played international rugby at the highest level, and he’s massively competitive. He’s an all‑round skilful player, he’s quick, and he’s very proud of what he does. He wants to make every moment the best it can be, and we’re blessed to have him ready to come in now.” 

For McNicholl, being named back in a Crusaders starting side is something he doesn’t take for granted. 

“It’s so special,” he says.  

“You don’t know how many games you’ve got left. You cherish every moment out there now, and it’s awesome to be named.” 

The return of Havili is another major positive for the Crusaders this week.  

“His leadership is without doubt. The boys love playing for him and with him. He’s in really good shape, he’s got over his injury really well, and he’s ready to go. He’s tough, skilful, a triple threat, and he brings a lot to our team. It’s great to have him back,” says Penney.  

Braydon Ennor is sidelined with a hamstring injury, with Dallas McLeod named among the reserves to replace him. Penney says the depth in the midfield continues to be a strength. 

“We’ve got great depth there, and a very powerful midfield group that we can select from,” he says.

Codie Taylor has also been ruled out with a hamstring injury. George Bell will take his place up front alongside George Bower, and Fletcher Newell and Manumaua Letiu will join the bench.  

Antonio Shalfoon and Jamie Hannah will combine in the locking positions. 

Dom Gardiner starts again after a strong return off the bench last week, while Corey Kellow shifts across the loose forward trio, continuing a run of impressive form. 

In the halves, Noah Hotham and Taha Kemara combine once more, with Penney saying the balance between Kemara and Rivez Reihana remains fluid as the season unfolds. 

Out wide, Sevu Reece, Leicester Fainga’anuku and Chay Fihaki provide strike and speed, while McNicholl’s calm presence at the back adds reassurance under the high ball. 

With the Reds arriving determined to respond, Penney knows the next stretch of the season is crucial. 

“These next couple of weeks are massively important,” he says.  

“We’ve got a really good plan. We’ve just got to get some results and keep building.”

Crusaders team to face the Reds:

1. George Bower

2. George Bell

3. Fletcher Newell

4. Antonio Shalfoon

5. Jamie Hannah

6. Dom Gardiner

7. Corey Kellow

8. Christian Lio‑Willie

9. Noah Hotham

10. Taha Kemara

11. Sevu Reece

12. David Havili (C)

13. Leicester Fainga’anuku

14. Chay Fihaki

15. Johnny McNicholl 

Reserves: 16. Manumaua Letiu 17. Finlay Brewis 18. Seb Calder 19. Tahlor Cahill 20. Johnny Lee 21. Louie Chapman 22. Rivez Reihana 23. Dallas McLeod 

Players unavailable for selection due to injury:   

Kyle PRESTON: Knee, 2-4 weeks 

Braydon ENNOR: Hamstring, 2-4 weeks 
Liam JACK:  Hamstring, 3-4 weeks  

Ethan BLACKADDER, Calf, 3-4 weeks 

Aki TUIVAILALA: Concussion, GRTP (Graduated Return to Play) 

Will JORDAN: Calf, Unclear 

Codie TAYLOR: Hamstring, Unclear 

Cullen GRACE:  Knee, Unclear 

James WHITE: Shoulder, out for the season 

Tamaiti WILLIAMS, Discitis, out for the season