McKenzie likely to return for Crusaders clash
Last week’s comeback win over the Blues in the Super Rugby opener has been tempered by the news that All Blacks trio Damian McKenzie, Nepo Laulala and Angus Ta’avao are all unlikely to suit up against the defending champions in Hamilton.
After nine months on the sideline with a serious knee injury, McKenzie was named to play against the Blues only to be ruled out due to a groin strain and was replaced by Shaun Stevenson.
Assistant coach Neil Barnes said McKenzie was “real close” to returning but added that they were not prepared to rush the talented fullback into the side.
“It’s one of those ones where we’ll probably err on the cautious side with him if he’s not a [100 per cent],” Barnes told media on Tuesday.
“I’m not on top with what happened with the backs training but I would imagine if they’re not 100 per cent confident we’ll wait another week.”
Gatland stacked his bench last week with several starters, which proved to be a masterstroke as the Chiefs overcame a 14-point halftime deficit. But with injuries mounting, the coach may not have the same luxury against the Crusaders. The clash gets underway at 6.05pm.
- Rugby News
Former Australian schoolboys and Junior Wallabies lock Nick Frost has been named on the bench for a potential Super Rugby debut.
Rookie No.10 Noah Lolesio holds onto the playmaking reins after leading the Brumbies to a season-opening win against Queensland Reds.
Reserve fly-half Bayley Kuenzle could make his Super Rugby debut after spending all 80 minutes on the bench last week.
The Brumbies have won nine-straight games at home and are gunning for the club record of 13 which they set 22 years ago.
The Rebels have won their past four games against the Brumbies and are looking to bounce back from a shock loss to the Sunwolves in Japan.
Brumbies: Scott Sio, Folau Fainga’a, Allan Alaalatoa, Murray Douglas, Cadeyrn Neville, Rob Valetini, Tom Cusack, Pete Samu, Joe Powell, Noah Lolesio, Tom Wright, Irae Simone, Tevita Kuridrani, Solomone Kata, Tom Banks.
Connal McInerney, Harry Lloyd, James Slipper, Nick Frost, Will Miller, Ryan Lonergan, Bayley Kuenzle, Andy Muirhead.