The Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder says they've proven they're a team that doesn't rely on captain Richie McCaw, but concedes their skipper does certainly add a special quality.
McCaw is likely to be considered for selection this week having missed last weekend's Super 14 match against the Lions in Johannesburg because of concussion and will be a boost for the side who need to score a bonus point victory against the Queensland Reds on Friday night to keep their faint play-off hopes alive.
Blackadder says they managed to win without McCaw last week and there's no denying his influence, but to get where they need to go the whole team has to step up and take leadership roles.
