Excitement is building in the Crusaders camp as they gear up to defend their Super Rugby Pacific title, with a fresh face set to take the reins at flyhalf in the absence of Richie Mo’unga. Debutant Rivez Reihana has been named to lead the charge as the Crusaders prepare to kick off their campaign against the Chiefs in Hamilton.
With Mo’unga embarking on a new journey in Japan, questions loomed over who would step up to fill the void left by the seven-time Super Rugby champion. However, head coach Rob Penney has put those doubts to rest by entrusting the No. 10 jersey to the promising talent of Reihana for his Crusaders debut.
Joining Reihana in the starting lineup is another newcomer, Levi Aumua, who brings his dynamic skills to the No. 13 jersey, adding depth and versatility to the Crusaders’ backline.
While the matchup against the Chiefs has been billed as a ‘grand final rematch’ by some, Coach Penney remains focused on the present, emphasizing that this season marks a new beginning for the team.
“This is a new season, a new group, and it’s an opportunity for this team to test themselves and see where they’re at,” said Penney, dismissing the notion of a rematch mentality.
In the forward pack, experienced campaigners George Bower, George Bell, and Tamaiti Williams anchor the front row, while captain Scott Barrett and Northern Tour skipper Quinten Strange lock horns in the second row, promising a formidable combination.
The loose forward trio of Dom Gardiner, Tom Christie, and Cullen Grace is poised to make its mark, offering a blend of power and agility in the Crusaders’ back row.
In the halves, Reihana partners with seasoned campaigner Mitchell Drummond, forming a dynamic duo tasked with steering the team’s attacking prowess. The midfield combination of Dallas McLeod and Levi Aumua adds further potency to the Crusaders’ offensive capabilities.
Meanwhile, the absence of Will Jordan due to a shoulder injury presents an opportunity for rising star Macca Springer to shine on the left wing, complemented by the electrifying presence of All Black Sevu Reece on the right.
The bench features a mix of experience and youth, with capped All Blacks Joe Moody, Owen Franks, and Ryan Crotty offering invaluable support alongside emerging talent Noah Hotham.
As the Crusaders prepare to take on the Chiefs at FMG Stadium Waikato, anticipation mounts for what promises to be an enthralling encounter, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Super Rugby Pacific.