Surprise position switch for Sevu Reece as Crusaders prepare for Drua

All Black and Crusaders winger Sevu Reece will line up in the midfield for the first time in his Super Rugby career when the Crusaders face the Drua in Fiji.

The surprise move sees Reece partner Dallas McLeod in the centres with Macca Springer and Chay Fihaki lining up on the wings. Young halves Noah Hotham and Taha Kemara will be trying to get the ball out wide to the likes of Reece and co.

“I’m so excited. Before I played on the wing, before I moved down to the Crusaders, I was playing centre, and it wasn’t until I moved down here that I played on the wing,” Reece said.  

“It’s always been a goal of mine to play centre at this level – to test myself against the best of the best and getting that opportunity this week in front if my family back in Fiji, what a place to play centre – I can’t even find the words, I’m just so excited.” 

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

2

Draws

0

Wins

3

Average Points scored

19

37

First try wins

60%

Home team wins

80%

The Crusaders have named an experienced finishing unit but have rolled the dice with a new look pack for the Drua.

Tahlor Cahill and Antonio Shalfoon will play in the second row, with Corey Kellow, Tom Christie and Christian Lio-Willie in the loose.

Up front Codie Taylor returns to the starting side with George Bower and young tighthead Seb Calder.

After last week’s loss to Moana Pasifika, the Crusaders are looking to bounce back in Fiji but the Drua do hold a formidable home record.

“It was awful last week, but we’ve addressed our performance, the coaching staff and the leaders have done a great job of setting the tone for the week. 

“The boys are going to have to grit their teeth and bear it and do what needs to be done for their teammates this weekend.” 

Crusaders team to face Fijian Drua:

1. George Bower
2. Codie Taylor (c)
3. Seb Calder
4. Tahlor Cahill
5. Antonio Shalfoon
6. Corey Kellow
7. Tom Christie
8. Christian Lio-Willie
9. Noah Hotham
10. Taha Kemara
11. Macca Springer
12. Dallas McLeod
13. Sevu Reece
14. Chay Fihaki
15. Will Jordan (vc)

Impact

16. Ioane Moananu
17. Kershawl Sykes- Martin
18. Fletcher Newell
19. Quinten Strange
20. Ethan Blackadder
21. Mitch Drummond
22. James O’Connor
23. Levi Aumua