Overview
- The Crusaders beat the table-topping Hurricanes 47-14 at One New Zealand Stadium on Friday, securing a bonus-point win and extending their unbeaten run at the new venue.
- The result moved Rob Penney’s side into third on the ladder, three points clear of the Blues and with a home qualifying-final still possible depending on the Chiefs vs Blues outcome.
- Clark Laidlaw’s Hurricanes used heavy rotation because they had already locked the No.1 seed, and they will host a qualifying final at Hnry Stadium on June 5 against the fifth- or sixth-placed team.
- Crusaders injury issues emerged during the match with flyhalf Rivez Reihana ruled out for a head-injury assessment, Ethan Blackadder withdrawn as a precaution, and prop Fletcher Newell leaving with a worrying knee problem.
- Sevu Reece marked his 100th Crusaders appearance with two tries and Cooper Roberts made an eye-catching debut, highlighting the team’s form but also raising selection questions if injuries persist into the finals.