Only one star from ‘champions’ Crusaders in Super Rugby team

6 uncapped Argentines called up

JOHANNESBURG, Aug 8, (AFP): Winger George Bridge was the only star from champions Canterbury Crusaders to be included in the official Super Rugby team of the season released Tuesday.

Bridge scored 15 tries during a season which ended last Saturday with Crusaders defeating the Golden Lions of South Africa 37-18 in the final in Christchurch.

His try haul was the equal second best in the competition this year, bettered only by the 16 of Ben Lam, the Wellington Hurricanes winger who did not make the team.

Crusaders were the outstanding team this season as they achieved a record-extending ninth title and second in a row, having also beaten the Lions in the 2017 final.

They won 14 of 16 regular-season matches, then achieved convincing victories over the Coastal Sharks, Hurricanes and Lions in the knockout phase.

Super Rugby organisers SANZAAR

Bridge

CHICAGO, Aug 8, (AFP): On the back of his hockey card they listed his vital statistics, but there was no way to measure the passion of Stan Mikita, who was the heart and soul of the Chicago Blackhawks for two decades.

The Slovak-born Mikita, a pioneer and innovator for the sport of ice hockey during his brilliant hall of fame NHL career, died on Tuesday. He was 78.

“I am saddened to learn of Stan Mikita’s passing,” said former teammate and fellow Hall of Famer Bobby Hull. “I, alongside all who played with him, knew him not only as a great player, but as an even better friend, teammate, husband, father and grandfather.

“I take comfort in knowing we will be forever together in front of the United Center, and I’m honored to now play a part in keeping his legacy alive.” Mikita’s family announced his death in a statement released by the team. He had been in ill health after being diagnosed with a brain disorder called Lewy body dementia.