Tamaiti Williams ruled out for Crusaders' semi-final with Blues

The Crusaders will be without form loosehead prop Tamaiti Williams for their semi-final against the Blues in Christchurch.

The extent of Williams’ injury is yet to be revealed. All Black George Bower comes into the starting XV in the monster front-rower’s absence, with Kershawl Sykes-Martin joining the bench.

“George has been magnificent for us and he’s had a few longer stints on the park, so I’ve got no doubt he’ll do a great job,” says head coach Rob Penney.  

The Crusaders are looking to bounce back from a disastrous 2024 season, where their Auckland rivals succeeded them as competition champions.

“It’s wonderful to have the Blues at home – it’s just one of those great occasions. A long history between the two teams that goes deep,” Penney added. 

“You look through history, home advantage for any sports team is just that. We’ll hopefully get a great crowd this week, it always gives the boys a real impetus and a lot of energy, and there’s none better than Crusaders crowds.”

The rivalry between the two clubs is fierce, and this matchup promises to be unlike any other as Super Rugby debuts a new playoff format.

“Even if you go back before Super Rugby- Canterbury Auckland the rivalry has always been deeply engrained in both regions, and it went to a new level once Smithy took the team up there in 98 and won the Crusaders first Super season up there and ever since the rivalry has been intense,” says Penney. 

Scott Barrett knows what it takes to win at the pointy end of the season, and knows what a Blues attack led by his brother Beauden is capable of.

“In a semi-final, the intensity steps up to another level, and Friday night is going to be fierce,” Barrett said.  

“It’s do or die stages – we know there’s no second chances this week, and it’s all on the line for the Blues and they’re certainly going to throw everything at us and we’re preparing for that.” 

Crusaders team to face the Blues

1. George Bower
2. (VC) Codie Taylor 
3. Fletcher Newell 
4. Scott Barrett 
5. Antonio Shalfoon 
6. (VC) Ethan Blackadder 
7. Tom Christie  
8. Christian Lio-Willie  
9. Noah Hotham 
10. Rivez Reihana  
11. Sevu Reece 
12. (C) David Havili 
13. Braydon Ennor 
14. Chay Fihaki 
15. (VC) Will Jordan 

Impact  

16. George Bell 
17. Kershawl Sykes-Martin
18. Seb Calder
19. Jamie Hannah
20. Cullen Grace
21. Kyle Preston 
22. James O’Connor 
23. Dallas McLeod