Sevu Reece returns for Crusaders against Blues as prop notches 100

Super Rugby’s all-time leading try-scorer has returned to the Crusaders’ starting XV after a two-week absence and is set to run out at One New Zealand Stadium for the first time.

Sevu Reece watched from the sidelines during Super Round after becoming a late withdrawal due to injury, and could only cheer as his replacement on the right wing, Dallas McLeod, ran over for the first try in Christchurch’s new stadium.

This week against the Blues, Reece joins a back three that also features Johnny McNicholl and Macca Springer, with Will Jordan expected to return from injury next week. David Havili and McLeod make up the centre partnership while Noah Hotham and Rivez Reihana operate as the starting halves duo. Taha Kemara has been ruled out due to a knee complaint.

In the pack, Leicester Fainga’anuku remains in the No.7 jersey, alongside Ethan Blackadder and Christian Lio-Willie in the loose forwards. Antonio Shalfoon and Jamie Hannah resume their partnership in the locks, with All Blacks captain Scott Barrett’s chances of returning this Super Rugby season on the ropes due to troublesome lower leg injuries.

In the front row, Fletcher Newell and Codie Taylor join milestone man George Bower, who will celebrate his 100th game in red and black.

“For me, I just want to put my best foot forward for the boys and put my body on the line. It’s an absolute honour to put that jersey on for the 100th time,” says Bower.

“I remember walking through the doors for the first time and seeing the values on the wall and the centurions. You admire those names, and then suddenly you realise it’s possible. When that whistle blows on Friday, that’s when it’ll really sink in.”

Crusaders head coach Rob Penney spoke on Bower’s influence within the group.

“Gio is such a genuine person – loving, caring and full of the values you want around your team. When things get tough, he’s one of those guys who lifts the group and blows the dark clouds away. He’s special for us, and it’s great to celebrate his hundred,” says Penney.

“What better way to play your 100th than against the Blues? That rivalry runs deep. It’s in the blood of Cantabrians and Aucklanders, and you wouldn’t want it any other way.”

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

4

Draws

0

Wins

1

Average Points scored

26

22

First try wins

60%

Home team wins

80%

Crusaders team to face the Blues

1. George Bower – 100th Game
2. Codie Taylor (VC)
3. Fletcher Newell
4. Antonio Shalfoon
5. Jamie Hannah
6. Ethan Blackadder
7. Leicester Fainga’anuku
8. Christian Lio?Willie
9. Noah Hotham
10. Rivez Reihana
11. Macca Springer
12. David Havili (C)
13. Dallas McLeod
14. Sevu Reece
15. Johnny McNicholl

Reserves

16. George Bell
17. Jack Sexton
18. Seb Calder
19. Tahlor Cahill
20. Dom Gardiner
21. Kyle Preston
22. Cooper Grant
23. Kurtis Macdonald

Injury list

Taha KEMARA: Knee, 1 week
Will JORDAN: Calf, 1 week
Will TUCKER: Concussion/ neck, 1 week
Cullen GRACE:  Knee, 2 weeks
Chay FIHAKI, Hamstring, 2 weeks
Finlay BREWIS: Calf, 2-4 weeks
Braydon ENNOR, Hamstring, 4 weeks
Aki TUIVAILALA: Concussion, GRTP (Graduated Return to Play)
Kershawl SYKES-MARTIN, Neck, TBC
James WHITE: Shoulder, out for the season
Tamaiti WILLIAMS, Discitis, out for the season