The Crusaders have lost All Black openside Matt Todd for Saturday's clash with the Stormers in Christchurch and up to six weeks of the Super Rugby season due to a broken thumb.
Matt Todd and Jack Goodhue in action for the Crusaders. Photo: PhotoSport
Todd picked up the injury during last weekend's opening win over the Chiefs. He's had an xray and coach Scott Robertson is hoping he won't be out for as long as expected. Robertson says they'll know more on Monday after assessments.
Robertson has named an unchanged backline from the side that defeated the Chiefs, thought there are two changes to the starting forward pack.
The Crusaders' latest centurion, lock Luke Romano, moves to the bench, with All Blacks team mate Scott Barrett to partner Sam Whitelock.
In the only other change in the forward pack loose forward Billy Harmon earns his first start in the No. 7 jersey, replacing the injured Todd.
Hooker Andrew Makalio and loose forward Heiden Bedwell-Curtis have both been named in the match day 23, after turning out for the Crusaders development side last weekend. They provide cover for Codie Taylor and Billy Harmon respectively.
Romano, who made his debut for the Crusaders back in 2011, is now the team's 18th Super Rugby centurion. Robertson said his Crusaders team mates were determined to celebrate the milestone with a good performance on Saturday.
"Luke is a valued member of our team, and has given his all every time he's taken the field for the Crusaders over the past seven seasons. He had an immense 2017 campaign and was an important part of our success, so I know the boys will want to put a performance befitting this milestone on the field come Saturday night.
"100 Super Rugby games is a real testament to Luke's character; he's not only an uncompromising competitor, but is also a loyal Crusaders man and a great leader. It's a special milestone and one we look forward to celebrating with Luke and his family," Robertson said.
-RNZ
