11 Nov 2009

Crusaders coach spoiled for choice at lock

6:44 pm on 11 November 2009

The Crusaders welcome back former All Black lock Chris Jack and farewell first five Stephen Brett in the naming of the 2010 Super 14 rugby squads, which have 21 newcomers.

Jack's been playing overseas, while Brett's leaving Dan Carter's shadow to join the Blues, so coach Todd Blackadder 's made his only dip into the draft with Auckland's Daniel Bowden providing extra cover at first-five.

Blackadder had no such problem at lock, with Jack and current All Blacks Brad Thorn and Isaac Ross automatic choices, and strong contenders in Sam Whitelock and James Broadhurst.

He says Whitelock's provincial championship form meant he couldn't be over-looked.