Podcast appearances and mentions of Ryan Crotty

Crusaders Centre Ryan Crotty joined D'Arcy Waldegrave to preview their opening clash against the Chiefs on Friday night.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is conventional wisdom shifting? Many believe art fairs and artists shouldn't mix. One artist described it to me as watching your parents have sex. It's not something artists want to do! But not everyone agrees. In this episode I speak to artist Mark Joshua Epstein about his experience at the Miami art fairs and why he believes the stigma associated with artists who attend without exhibiting their work has changed. He got a lot out of his visit, and shares what he gained, who he thinks will benefit, and when it won't help you. And he shares plenty of insider tips to help you if you decide to go!   Names mentioned: Shelter Gallery presents Jaqueline Cedar at NADA https://www.shelternyc.com/   Mrs Gallery presents Nickola Pottinger at Art Basel Miami  https://www.mrsgallery.com/2023-art-basel-miami-beach   High Noon presents Ryan Crotty at Untitled  https://www.highnoongallery.com/untitled-art-miami-2023   County presents Danielle Mysliwiec at Untitled  https://www.daniellemysliwiec.com/exhibitions   To Weave The Sky at El Espacio 23  https://elespacio23.org/2023/10/05/to-weave-the-sky-textile-abstractions/   Noon Projects presents Alex Kerr at Nada  https://elespacio23.org/2023/10/05/to-weave-the-sky-textile-abstractions/   Aysa Geisberg at Untitled  https://www.asyageisberggallery.com/

The Bulletin with Gordon Findlater on where he's at post Rugby World Cup, time-wasting, Ryan Crotty re-signs with Crusaders, ICC World Cup, Blackcaps, Liam Lawson's year, future and more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Missed the show this morning? No worries, catch all the action right here from @SENZMornings with Ian Smith featuring, Smithy's Sermon, Emma Rolston, Talkback Time, Smithy's Multi, Ryan Crotty, Louis Herman-Watt, Krystal Williams, Ryan Foote, Daniel McHardy, Sports Desk, Stumped by Smithy, Andy Thompson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Missed the show this morning? No worries, catch all the action right here from @SENZMornings with Ian Smith featuring, Smithy's Sermon, Emma Rolston, Talkback Time, Smithy's Multi, Ryan Crotty, Louis Herman-Watt, Krystal Williams, Ryan Foote, Daniel McHardy, Sports Desk, Stumped by Smithy, Andy Thompson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

QUICK LISTEN | “I've actually had that conversation with quite a few guys most recently was Wayne Smith…I still feel good, feel like I'm doing it for the right reasons…till the wheels fall off.” Ryan Crotty on approaching retirement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Canterbury Rugby Legend Ryan Crotty catches up with Smithy to talk about his return to New Zealand and the Canterbury NPC team, depth of experiences in the squad, future plans & more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Canterbury Rugby Legend Ryan Crotty catches up with Smithy to talk about his return to New Zealand and the Canterbury NPC team, depth of experiences in the squad, future plans & more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When I saw Ryan Crotty strolling down my street the other day I thought I need to get this Canterbury, Crusader and All Black legend on the podcast because he is one of the great lads! Fresh after returning from Japan after winning the Top League with Kubota, Crotts was straight back helping out at the Crusaders at training which basically sums up what a lad this man is. In this episode he goes through his pathway through the NZ ranks which saw him go from being the ball boy for Dan Carter to playing outside him in the space of a few years. Ryan talks about some of his tougher years battling with injuries in particular concussion and also missing out on selection for the 2015 RWC. There was also plenty of good times to reminisce on as well, winning 7 NPC title, 3 Super Rugby titles, 5 Rugby Championships and heaps more. As you will hear Ryan Crotty is one of those genuine good guys who has an awesome mindset towards life.

The Crusaders' injury-crisis has reached the point that the Super Rugby Pacific side is recalling ageing former All Blacks to bolster the ranks. Midfielder Ryan Crotty is back training with the team in Christchurch this week. The 34-year-old last played Super Rugby four years ago. Crotty's inclusion follows that of 39-year-old former All Black John Afoa, who was called into the starting side last week. We're joined by sports reporter Felicity Reid.  

Sam takes a look back on this day in history.

On the eve of the US Eagles facing the mighty All Blacks, Dan and James throw it back to 2014 inviting Ryan Crotty and Andrew Suniula onto the show to discuss their head to head match up in the mid-field. Ryan Crotty, All Black #1124, enjoyed his time ahead of their first match against the US in the United States. He discusses the chance to visit during their press tour getting led around Chicago with Andrew, mentioning that he spent a lot of time trying to find the best pizza in town. Andrew Suniula, Eagle #397 mentions how surreal it was to play against the All Blacks. Growing up his family had moved to New Zealand before emigrating to the US, at one time he had wanted to also be an All Black. Little did he know as teenager that he would eventually face down the Haka in 2014 in Chicago. USA Rugby has officially launched it's bid for the Rugby World Cup, intending to host both the 2029 Women's Rugby World Cup and 2031 Men's Rugby World Cup. Dan and James break down how the Rugby World Cup will become a platform to grow the sport in conjunction with the work already done by Major League Rugby. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Soaks and Rusty chat all things Kubota Spears and the Top League in Japan...  the impact of Malcom Marx and Ryan Crotty, environment, leadership, your best man, alignment, being a great bolt, language and mastery on the battleship... enjoy!

人生最後のセレモニー「お葬式」について、今ミレニアル世代を中心に大きな変化が起こっています。世界各地で注目を集める、葬儀にまつわる新ビジネスの潮流をご紹介します（出演：岡徳之、山本直子）。 Photo by Ryan Crotty on Unsplash

Were the All Blacks arrogant to purposefully play the last 15 minutes of their 92-7 win over Tonga with only 14 men?That's the question being asked by Fox Sports Australia after All Blacks coach Steve Hansen admitted that he deliberately forced his men to finish the game with 14 players in the final 15 minutes in order to put more pressure on them.Clearly mindful not to offend Tonga with his comments, Hansen said Ryan Crotty was scheduled to play only 65 minutes on his return to the top level from a broken thumb and that while he could have contrived to have Aaron Smith play on the wing at the end, he was comfortable with a numerical disadvantage."Obviously his [Crotty's] welfare was more important and it was a good opportunity again to put ourselves under a bit of pressure when it comes to how many we have on the park."We had to make that choice and the score told us we could make that choice with relatively low risk."But in their report on the All Blacks' win, Fox Sports asked the question which was on the minds of some after the match - were the All Blacks "Arrogant or just plain smart?""The All Blacks did it so easy against Tonga that they deliberately finished the game with 14 men," they wrote, writing that it was the only moment of the match where the hosts weren't ruthless."Playing with a freedom against hopelessly outclassed opponents, the world champions flexed their attacking muscles ominously."‌Wales Online called the move to play with 14 an "interesting decision", noting that the All Blacks had sent a warning to the rest of the rugby world, while others thought the tactic was a smart one, and similar to what they had produced in 2015."The tactic was reminiscent of the last World Cup in England when they practised different scenarios in matches throughout the pool phase to ensure they were ready for the knockout games," wrote Reuters.As for the All Blacks' performance as a whole, "ominous" was the word on the lips of most of the world's media after the dominant win.Irish website The 42 said that the All Blacks' "Rugby World Cup dress rehearsal was more like a training session as the defending champions demolished Tonga 92-7 in an ominous warning", while Dylan Jack of the SA Rugby Mag wondered how much was gained by the thrashing."It is hard to judge what, aside from a massive confidence boost, the New Zealanders really gained from the match as it is unlikely that they will come up against as porous defences as the Tongans' in Hamilton. In fact, the scoreline was so flattering that the All Blacks took centre Ryan Crotty off in the second half and did not replace him, deliberately playing with 14 men when the game was already won."Elsewhere, the Telegraph wrote that the All Blacks were "keen to send a message" ahead of the World Cup."Saturday's match ticked a lot of boxes for All Blacks coach Steve Hansen in terms of gelling some of their attack and giving Ben Smith confidence at full-back after some lacklustre performances on the wing," they wrote."The All Blacks are well aware, however, that they are unlikely to get the same amount of time and space against the Springboks." 

Could Tonga beat Southland at rugby? Was it wrong to bring Ryan Crotty off after 65 minutes. The Warriors are goooone, but will 2020 be better or more of the same? Rusty warns us that the Irish have their mojo back, Jon Norman gets mistaken for an Australian Cricket fan and the txt line gets mad about the Block Finale@AllBlacks @NRL @Russ_Hargreaves @FulhamJon

In the end the selection of Ryan Crotty and Anton Lienert-Brown in the midfield for the All Blacks against Tonga was easy for coach Steve Hansen and his fellow selectors because they were the only pair fit and available.Sonny Bill Williams' tight calf ruled him out and Jack Goodhue's hamstring strain suffered against Australia in Perth accounted for him. For them and the All Blacks it's an unfortunate state of affairs because they both need game time and the big question for Hansen now will be whether he can gamble on selecting them – and in particular Goodhue - against the Boks in Yokohama in a fortnight.Goodhue must now be doubtful, but Williams, given his big-game temperament, must be firmly in the frame for second-five for that World Cup opener.That would suggest Lienert-Brown, who has shouldered a fair bit of work lately in playing 80 minutes in the last two tests against Australia, must be the favourite to wear the No 13 jersey against the Boks should he remain fit, an honour that will be fully deserved given his recent form.Crotty's return from a broken thumb also comes at just the right time and the Crusaders and Canterbury midfielder, leaving to go overseas at the end of the year, is not surprisingly a fan of Lienert-Brown's work."I watched him a lot in Super Rugby," Crotty said. "He's just taken his game to another level - he's just continued to get a little bit better each year and it's just awesome to see him on that incline. The thing about Anton … I love how mindful he is – he's almost wise beyond his years. He's still a young guy but he's got a lot of experience. He's a deep thinker."In what threatened to turn into a meeting of a mutual admiration society in Hamilton ahead of the test against Tonga on Saturday, Lienert-Brown returned the compliment to a player who is almost as adaptable as he is.Lienert-Brown, still only 24, has played so well in both midfield positions this year it's difficult to know what his best position is. The same applies to Crotty to a slightly lesser extent; he's probably a better No 12 but it's his experience, reliability and distribution skills which set him apart."I guess I've been around for a while now and have played a few tests, which I'm very lucky to have been able to do," Lienert-Brown said. "It's not your age [which is important], it's probably the years you spend in here. Every year you learn a lot and I've been really lucky to have been under Sonny and Crotts, they're very wise men themselves.""He's very detailed … and always keeps you honest," Lienert-Brown said of Crotty. "That's made me better as a player and person."We're always challenged to be honest … and there's no hierarchy. We just want the best for each other."All Blacks side to face Tonga:Joe Moody (40)2. Codie Taylor (44)3. Nepo Laulala (19)4. Patrick Tuipulotu (24)5. Samuel Whitelock (111)6. Ardie Savea (38) 7. Matt Todd (20)8. Kieran Read - captain (121)9. TJ Perenara (58)10. Beauden Barrett (77)11. George Bridge (4)12. Ryan Crotty (44)13. Anton Lienert-Brown (37)14. Sevu Reece (2)15. Ben Smith (79)Reserves:Liam Coltman (5) 17. Ofa Tuungafasi (29) 18. Angus Ta'avao (7) 19. Scott Barrett (30) 20. Luke Jacobson (1)21. Aaron Smith (86) 22. Josh Ioane *23. Jordie Barrett (11) 

World rugby has reacted with disbelief at the naming of the All Blacks squad for the World Cup in Japan - with many leading media organisations and fans expressing shock at the decision to exclude 108-cap veteran Owen Franks.Franks, Liam Squire and Ngani Laumape were the most noticeable absentees from the 31-man squad named in Auckland this afternoon, with Fox Sports calling the trio's omission "ruthless" under the headline All Bl-axed! 144 caps gone as ruthless NZ run a knife through World Cup squad.The site also suggested head coach Steve Hansen was taking a risk by including only two specialist first-fives in Beauden Barrett and Richie Mo'unga."There are just two specialist five-eighths named, with Hansen banking on Beauden Barrett and Richie Mo'unga enjoying an injury-free run," Fox Sports reported.AFP and the roar.com.au called Franks' axing a "shock omission", while the former expressed some surprise at the inclusion of seasoned utility back Ben Smith despite some recent poor form.AAP's line was about "sentimentality being cast aside in the name of speed", as Franks was replaced by the more mobile Atu Moli, with the Syndey Morning Herald describing it as a "major bombshell".The mass interest in the squad was evident when the All Blacks' official website crashed shortly after the announcement and the hashtags #RWC2019, #AllBlacks and #NewZealand soared to the top of Twitter's trending topics.Unsurprisingly, fans took to social media to voice their opinions on the selections - with Franks' absence a hot topic."No Owen Franks!" one user wrote with a shocked face emoji. "Understandable but you have to feel for the man, cruel game this.""Incredible that the @AllBlacks have deemed 108-cap Owen Franks surplus to requirements. He'd probably start for just about every other country, yet won't be at the @rugbyworldcup this autumn," another wrote.Many fans were equally puzzled by No 12 Laumape missing the cut with Jack Goodhue, Sonny Bill Williams, Ryan Crotty and Anton Lienert-Brown all preferred in midfield."I Understand Franks & Squire, But Seriously How Did Ngani Laumape Miss Out?""Stoked Luke Jacobson made the @AllBlacks squad for #RWC2019, but gutted for Ngani Laumape. Couldn't have done anything more to make the squad. Would have liked impact from a player of his calibre off the bench," wrote another.All Blacks legend Dan Carter was quick to congratulate the selected team while offering his sympathy for those who didn't."Rugby World Cups are where dreams are made. A special congratulations to all the boys selected for the @allblacks RWC squad. Commiserations to the guys that missed out. The work starts now #letsgooo #allblackeverything," he wrote on Twitter.The All Blacks will play South Africa, Canada, Namibia and Italy in pool matches starting on September 21, before heading into the knockout rounds.All Blacks squad: Joe Moody, Nepo Laulala, Angus Ta'avao, Ofa Tuungafasi, Atu Moli, Dane Coles, Codie Taylor, Liam Coltman, Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Scott Barrett, Luke Jacobson, Matt Todd, Ardie Savea, Sam Cane, Kieran Read (captain), Aaron Smith, TJ Perenara, Brad Weber, Richie Mo'unga, Beauden Barrett, Sonny Bill Williams, Ryan Crotty, Jack Goodhue, Anton Lienert-Brown, Rieko Ioane, Sevu Reece, George Bridge, Jordie Barrett, Ben Smith 

Highlanders loose forward Liam Squire has been picked in the All Blacks World Cup after declaring himself available for selection. The powerful blindside flanker had a self imposed exile after Super Rugby, saying he wasn't ready for test rugby after spending much of the season on the sidelines. His inclusion in the loose forward mix means there is no place for the likes of Vaea Fifita or Jackson Hemopo. Lock Brodie Retallick has been included despite only likely to be available for the latter stages of the tournament. Powerful second five Ngani Laumape has missed out on selection with the returning Ryan Crotty joining Sonny Bill Williams, Anton Lienert Brown and Jack Goodhue. Canterbury's Brayden Ennor has been squeezed out of an outside back spot with rookie wings Sevu Reece and George Bridge both included. Simon and Phil shared their thoughts on the selection, and what we can expect from this side during the Rugby World Cup.  LISTEN ABOVE

Rugby commentator Murray Mexted shares his thoughts on the Crusaders victory above. For more analysis, Patrick McKendry from the New Zealand Herald offers his take below: Before the Crusaders got on with the serious business of celebrating Super Rugby title number three in three years, they lifted the lid, or perhaps popped the cork, on how they dealt with the potential emotional drain of so many players leaving after this season.Or, more to the point, how history-making head coach Scott Robertson did it. One of the many strategies thought up by the man known as Razor, the first coach to win three titles in a row, was to refer to the impending departures of Kieran Read, Ryan Crotty, Owen Franks, Matt Todd, Jordan Taufua and Sam Whitelock (for one season), throughout the year rather than leaving it until the playoffs to address and potentially distract.It was possibly only a small piece of the puzzle, but it was an important one, and it's more evidence of the 44-year-old's attention to detail and ability to inspire.Crusaders players celebrate after defeating the Jaguars 19-3 to win the Super Rugby final in Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, July 6, 2019. (AP Photo/Mark Baker)Robertson also won three consecutive titles as a player. His is a record that will not be broken for a long time, and there will already be talk of another title in Christchurch. Possibly the only barriers to him achieving a lot more success at this level are the departures of such world-class players and the fact he is firmly in the frame as Steve Hansen's successor at the All Blacks.Crotty was unable to play the Jaguares in the final, won 19-3 by the Crusaders, due to a broken thumb, but he presented the jerseys to his teammates beforehand and they responded with utter commitment; especially Todd, who put in an incredible performance in the No7 jersey, but also Read and Whitelock."It's all here," skipper Whitelock said of the talent available to Robertson, "but he's challenged people to get better and to grow. Everyone's done that whether you've been here for a couple of months or 150-plus games. He has the ability to grow players but also grow the coaching and management staff too. We've got an amazing set-up."Crusaders Kieran Read is held aloft by teammates as he celebrates after they defeated the Jaguares 19-3 to win the Super Rugby final in Christchurch. Photo / APWhitelock revealed that such was Robertson's lateral thinking as he attempted to mentally stimulate his players that he often had no idea what to expect when he turned up to training. Some ideas were left alone, others wholeheartedly embraced.Asked how this title compared with the others, Robertson said: "The first one I was excited, ecstatic, 'how good is this?', the second one was relief and that one was 'thank God for that'. Honestly, there are so many people leaving. There was a lot of emotion. Thank God we can send them off on the right note."I did it [three in a row] as a player too so to do it as a player and a coach is special. I get a bit emotional talking about it. I've got a championship winning team here, I'm not going to say I haven't. I've got a lot of All Blacks, a lot of guys who are world class and my role is to get the best out of them and the best out of the group."The Jaguares came to knock a few bodies around in their first ever grand final, and they certainly did that. How there were no serious injuries suffered by either team almost beggars belief, and All Blacks coach Hansen will be thrilled there were no obvious issues suffered by his 11 All Blacks in the Crusaders a couple of weeks out from the Rugby Championship.In the end they didn't have the attacking quality to seriously challenge the Crusaders at the end of one of the home side's most difficult seasons."I must admit it's been a different week," said Whitelock, who will take a sabbatical before returning to the Crusaders in 2021. "It's been up and down. Obviously Ryan Crotty, who I've kn...

There's been a buzz around the Crusaders' camp this week with their eyes on a third consecutive title and a couple of freshly minted All Blacks in the squad.Impressive backline duo Braydon Ennor and Sevu Reece were among the 39 players named in the first All Blacks squad of the year, hearing their names called out for the first time.But while excitement levels were high, coach Scott Robertson has implored them to keep their eyes on the prize."The old Whatsapp groups have been fired up; love hearts and fist pumps over the last few days," Robertson told Radio Sport's D'Arcy Waldegrave. "[But] we moved on pretty quickly because we've got a job to do."The Crusaders will welcome the Jaguares to OrangeTheory Stadium in Christchurch tomorrow night as they look to lock away the Super Rugby title for another year. It's a match up that Robertson admits he didn't expect when the season started, but one that is likely to be a very physical encounter.The Jaguares impressed all season to finish on top of a tightly contested South African conference and showed they were more than capable of getting the job done at home or on the road."There aren't many guys who would have said you'd be playing them [in the final] at the start of the season. You've got to give it to them. You've got the ability to front up when they do travel," Robertson said of the Jaguares."We're really impressed with them. It's going to take all of, probably more, effort than against the Hurricanes."Robertson described last weekend's semifinal against the Hurricanes as "anything but a final", with the high-intensity affair going down to the wire.The side will be without star duo Ryan Crotty and Scott Barrett for the final, with Ennor replacing Crotty in the midfield and Mitchell Dunshea deputising for Barrett at lock alongside Sam Whitelock. Young outside back Will Jordan joins the bench.Crusaders: David Havili, Sevu Reece, Braydon Ennor, Jack Goodhue, George Bridge, Richie Mo'unga, Bryn Hall, Kieran Read, Matt Todd, Whetukamokamo Douglas, Sam Whitelock, Mitchell Dunshea, Owen Franks, Codie Taylor, Joe Moody. Reserves: Andrew Makalio, George Bower, Michael Alaalatoa, Luke Romano, Jordan Taufua, Mitchell Drummond, Mitchell Hunt, Will Jordan.Jaguares: Emiliano Boffelli, Matias Moroni, Matias Orlando, Jeronimo de la Fuente, Ramiro Moyano, Joaquin Diaz Bonilla, Tomas Cubelli, Javier Ortega Desio, Marcos Kremer, Pablo Matera, Tomas Lavanini, Guido Petti, Santiago Medrano, Agustin Creevy, Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro. Reserves: Julian Montoya, Mayco Vivas, Enrique Pieretto, Juan Manuel Leguizamon, Tomas Lezana, Felipe Ezcurra, Domingo Miotti, Sebastian Cancelliere

The Super Rugby final is coming back to Christchurch.The Crusaders will host the Jaguares next weekend looking for the final result to seal their trifecta, after ending the Hurricanes season with a 30-26 win on Saturday.In a clash between the two sides with the most points on the table this season, the Crusaders showed just how hard they can be to beat on their home turf.A lack of discipline ultimately cost the Hurricanes, who conceded more than twice as many penalties than the Crusaders; two of which resulted in points from the boot of Richie Mo'unga.The hosts broke out to a fast start, going up by three points in as many minutes, before a brilliant cross kick from Ryan Crotty found winger Sevu Reece in the corner for the opening try of the match in the 13th minute.The Hurricanes did well to stem the flow of the Crusaders points despite having very little of the ball early on. It wasn't until the 34th minute that the visitors found some room to move when Jordie Barrett went flying down the sideline on the counter attack.Ultimately deciding not to pass to either of the players flanking him in support, Barrett's run did put the Hurricanes in position to get on the board which they did through Ngani Laumape who stood up Reece to get over the try line.The Crusaders outran Hurricanes by 100m in the first half, with the Hurricanes making far more tackles. However, the Crusaders kept the door open – with 12 turnovers conceded in the first half.It was a different story in the second half as the game opened up and both sides played fluid, attacking football.Ben Lam put the Hurricanes within one point just minutes into the second half, before Mo'unga answered right back.Laumape and Reece then traded tries, before TJ Perenara stretched out late in the piece to give the Hurricanes a great chance to steal the win.However, a late penalty gave the Crusaders the chance to push their slim lead out to four points, and the Hurricanes were unable to find another try to take out the win.With two minutes on the clock, the Hurricanes were in position to launch an attack, but a knock on called against Perenara put an end to their hopes. What made matters worse for Hurricanes fans was that it appeared Crusaders lock Sam Whitelock had reached over the breakdown and swiped the ball from Perenara's grasp.The Crusaders will now await the arrival of the Jaguares, who will run out in their first ever Super Rugby final after demolishing the Brumbies in Argentina.Result aside, both Reece and Laumape continued their terrific seasons and put their hands up for a spot in the All Blacks World Cup squad later this year. Laumape continued to show he's the country's form midfielder, and while Reece's deficiencies on the defensive end were exploited by the Hurricanes, what he offers in attack could well land him a black jersey later this year.Crusaders 30 (Sevu Reece 2, Richie Mo'unga tries; Richie Mo'unga 3 cons, 3 pens)Hurricanes 26 (Ngani Laumape 2, Ben Lam, TJ Perenara tries; Beauden Barrett 3 cons) 

Today on the show - Research Ryan, where did you get stuck as a kid, wrong number who dis, Mel & Mel, hooking up with mates sister, Black Keys in a bowl winner, Ryan Crotty, best bits of the weekSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A crystal ball gaze at the potential 2020 Crusaders midfield.With Ryan Crotty on All Blacks rest week, Braydon Ennor and Jack Goodhue are paired in midfield for Friday's Super Rugby match against the Sharks.Crotty is headed to Japan from next season and coach Scott Robertson says he's keen to mix and match.Captain Sam Whitelock, and first five Richie Mo'unga join Ryan Crotty on All Blacks rest weeks.Scott Barrett and Mitchell Dunshea form the second row with Mitchell Hunt starting at 10..@crusadersrugby have named their side to face @TheSharksZA on Friday. Kieran Read to play 150th game. pic.twitter.com/4xLNPVqi7K— Radio Sport (@radiosportnz) May 1, 2019

Owen Franks' stop-start Super Rugby season has hit another judder-bar.The Crusaders and All Blacks prop has been left out of the squad to play the Highlanders on Friday in Christchurch due to a shoulder injury.Franks has played just once in the last month, clocking 40 minutes against the Brumbies last week.Crusaders coach Scott Robertson says Franks will go for a scan and they'll take their time with him."He'll get a scan ... see how things are going with his shoulder," said Robertsons. "And the best thing for him, we just realise that we'll take our time with our players because we've got the depth in the squad, something we're really fortunate to have."We're rolling and trusting our squad and it's really important that we've got as many bodies available by the end of the competition and by trusting the players now."Fellow All Blacks Codie Taylor and George Bridge are also nursing minor injuries and weren't considered, while Sam Whitelock, Bryn Hall, Jack Goodhue and Brayden Ennor return to the side.Despite missing some big names, Robertson said they were determined to pick their best team against what will be a tricky southern derby against the Highlanders."We've picked the best team for this week. We needed to. We know how desperate the Highlanders are, the position they're in and they've certainly mentioned how important this game is to them."Crusaders: David Havili, Braydon Ennor, Jack Goodhue, Ryan Crotty, Sevu Reece, Richie Mo'unga, Bryn Hall, Kieran Read, Matt Todd, Whetukamokamo Douglas, Sam Whitelock (captain), Scott Barrett, Michael Alaalatoa, Andrew Makalio, Joe Moody. Reserves: Ben Funnell, Harry Allan, Oliver Jager, Quinten Strange, Jordan Taufua, Mitchell Drummond, Mitchell Hunt, Will Jordan.

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson is quick to admit his side weren't up to their usual standard in last weekend's loss to the Waratahs."We were desperate last week but we were pretty inaccurate a lot of times at key moments," Robertson said. "That's our focus, we made sure we were really clear on what we needed to get better at."With the Crusaders' loss to the Waratahs, which ended their unbeaten start to the season, the Hurricanes were able to draw level on the points table with their southern counterparts at the top of the New Zealand conference.The Crusaders will take a strengthened side to Wellington in the search for local supremacy on Friday night, welcoming back a host of players including captain Kieran Read and Richie Mo'unga.The Hurricanes have had the Crusaders' number in Wellington in recent years, and Robertson noted the rivalry was something Super Rugby and New Zealand rugby needed."There's always the anticipation around it from the players and the public. They're always pretty brutal and results have gone both ways over the years. It's a great date on the calendar and something to look forward to."Crusaders: David Havili, Braydon Ennor, Jack Goodhue, Ryan Crotty, George Bridge, Richie Mo'unga, Bryn Hall, Kieran Read, Matt Todd, Whetukamokamo Douglas, Samuel Whitelock, Scott Barrett, Owen Franks, Codie Taylor, Harry AllanReserves: Andrew Makalio, George Bower, Michael Alaalatoa, Quinten Strange, Jordan Taufua, Mitchell Drummond, Brett Cameron, Will Jordan. 

Matt Cooper, former All Black midfielder and Sky rugby analyst, joined Radio Sport Breakfast this morning to preview this weekend's blockbuster between the Crusaders and Hurricanes.Cooper is intrigued by this weekend's midfield match-up between Laumape and Goodhue but thinks Ryan Crotty is still the preferred option at number 12.LISTEN TO THE AUDIO ABOVE

A surprise selection in the Crusaders front row for their Super Rugby match with the Highlanders this weekend.George Bower replaces the injured Joe Moody at loosehead prop, with Harry Allen remaining on the bench.Crusaders coach Scott Robertson says Bower is a strong, versatile prop forward.There are eight changes to the Crusaders starting fifteen including a first appearance of the season for captain Sam Whitelock."Every team has to go in with confidence," says Whitelock. "They're a good pack and will be trying to build on the success they've had this year. They'll be excited by that. That's our challenge. We have to go down to their home patch."All Black Whitelock's return could hardly have come at a better time – especially with his Crusaders and national teammate Scott Barrett putting in such a busy start to the year.Barrett is due for a rest next week when the Crusaders play the Waratahs in Sydney, as is Richie Mo'unga."It's good in a couple of ways," Robertson said of Whitelock's return. "We've grown a couple of other leaders while he's been away and he's keen and energetic and as good a nick physically as he's been for a few years."When Skip first said he'd be away you think 'well, how are we going to deal with it' because he's been a big part of our success but he's been working behind the scenes and he comes back with great energy."Whitelock said his priority would be to get through as many minutes as he can, adding that he felt the toll of a busy year while with the All Blacks in November."I felt in a pretty good space but lacked a little bit of that last five or 10 per cent especially in those first couple of steps out of a breakdown or getting off the ground," he said. "If you take that away for a player that can be frustrating but it's in the past now and I'm pretty happy."Crusaders team to play Highlanders at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Saturday, kick-off 7.35pm is: 15 David Havili, 14 Braydon Ennor, 13 Jack Goodhue, 12 Ryan Crotty, 11 George Bridge, 10 Richie Mo'unga, 9 Bryn Hall, 8 Whetu Douglas, 7 Matt Todd, 6 Jordan Taufua, 5 Sam Whitelock, 4 Scott Barrett, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 George Bower.Reserves: 16 Andrew Makalio, 17 Harry Allen, 18 Michael Alaalatoa, 19 Quentin Strange, 20 Tom Sanders 21 Ere Enari, 22 Brett Cameron, 23 Will Jordan.

Sevu Reece is set to make his Super Rugby debut for the Crusaders, just five months after having his overseas contract torn up due to a court appearance on an assault charge.Reece, who had a stellar Mitre 10 Cup season with Waikato, had inked a two-year deal with Irish side Connacht, but it was ripped up in October, after his involvement in a domestic violence incident in July.Reece was seen grabbing his partner and pulling her down to the ground, after the pair got into an argument. The woman suffered injuries to her face and bruising to her waist and knee. The judge granted Reece a discharge without conviction and fined him $750.It was enough for Connacht to end their association with the Waikato winger, and initially, Reece was not named in any Super Rugby squads.However, Reece was called into the Crusaders' camp for pre-season training, and has now been named in the defending champions' starting lineup for their clash against the Chiefs on Saturday. He is also likely to be named a full-time replacement for Manasa Mataele, who is set to miss the entire season after suffering a knee injury against the Hurricanes.When Reece was called in for their pre-season training, Crusaders assistant coach Brad Mooar argued that while Reece had made a "serious mistake", he deserved a second chance."We can see the genuine remorse and his acceptance that he's done wrong and is working to fix it. And improve as a person."He's with his partner and he has great support from her."Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson spoke from a similar songsheet today."I've never had any concerns. He's a quality young kid, he's gone through that process with the incident ... and he's come down here. He's a great human - I don't think there's a guy who has worked harder in our group."[He's] extremely humble and I'm glad that we can play a part in his life and help him be the best he can."Reece's talent has never been in question, and he is likely to impress against a Chiefs side who never called him up despite his stellar showings for Waikato."He's broken a few ankles at training, he can step, he can create. He asks a lot of questions, he's very diligent," said an enthused Robertson.Reece and Braydon Ennor will start on the wing this weekend for the Crusaders, with George Bridge on his manadatory All Blacks rest week, as are Owen Franks and Matt Todd.With Sam Whitelock and Kieran Read also still resting, the Crusaders forward pack looks weaker than their usual high standards, but Codie Taylor is set to make his return off the bench.Ryan Crotty also returns to the side, as captain, while halfback Ere Enari is set to make his first start.Crusaders: Will Jordan, Sevu Reece, Jack Goodhue, Ryan Crotty (captain), Braydon Ennor, Richie Mo'unga, Ere Enari, Whetukamokamo Douglas, Billy Harmon, Jordan Taufua, Scott Barrett, Mitchell Dunshea, Michael Alaalatoa, Andrew Makalio, Joe MoodyReserves: Codie Taylor, Harry Allan, Giorgio Bower, Luke Romano, Ethan Blackadder, Bryn Hall, Brett Cameron, David Havili 

LISTEN TO JAMES PARSONS TALK WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN ABOVEFar from naming a predictable team for the third Bledisloe Cup test against the Wallabies in Yokohama on Saturday, the All Blacks selectors have thrown a few surprises into the mix, the biggest one the naming of Damian McKenzie at fullback.It will be a welcome return to the game for the little 23-year-old, who hasn't played since coming off the reserves bench to fullback for the final, frantic, minutes of the defeat to the Springboks in Wellington six weeks ago.He was included in the extended squad to play Argentina in Buenos Aires but flew back to New Zealand following a family bereavement, and while he travelled to South Africa for the return test against the Boks it was decided that due to the travel he had undertaken it wouldn't be appropriate to play him.The best way to use McKenzie's pace and counterattacking talents has clearly evolved in the minds of the selectors in relation to the development of first-five Richie Mo'unga. Until Mo'unga's rise at the Crusaders and, latterly the All Blacks, McKenzie was seen as a No10 who could play at fullback (a bit like Beauden Barrett, in fact).McKenzie played a whole season at the Chiefs in the No10 jersey following the departure of Aaron Cruden and that was where he seemed set, but such has been Mo'unga's impact – and he has again been named as Barrett's back-up in Yokohama – that clearly the selectors have modified their thinking.It will now be up to the Chiefs player to work his way into a big test from the first whistle rather than exploit tiring defences off the bench in the second half. Should he do so then he will quickly become a genuine option for the No15 jersey because it's clear that Jordie Barrett, still only 21, has a bit of developing to do yet in terms of his test career.The major casualty here is probably right wing Waisake Naholo – not included in the squad after a couple of quiet tests against the Springboks in Pretoria and Argentina in Buenos Aires.Ben Smith will wear the No14 jersey, with Rieko Ioane predictably named on the left wing, Ryan Crotty and Sonny Bill Williams in the midfield, and Barrett at first-five.There is another minor surprise at halfback, with TJ Perenara to wear the No9 jersey and Aaron Smith playing back-up on the reserves bench; another recognition, probably, of the former's better form.Hooker Dane Coles will have to wait another week at least for his test return; clearly the selectors have decided it's too early for him at this level after limited minutes on his return to Wellington in the Mitre 10 Cup over the past fortnight following a horror injury run which extends back to November last year.There is, however, a return for lock Brodie Retallick, named on the bench as cover for Sam Whitelock and Scott Barrett. Prop Nepo Laulala, back from a broken arm which has ruled him out of test rugby since November last year, has also been named on the bench.Ardie Savea has been named at openside flanker in Sam Cane's injury-forced absence, with Matt Todd, currently playing club rugby in Japan for Panasonic but given a dispensation by the New Zealand Rugby board, named as his back-up. 

So the end of the week that was.As I said yesterday Brett Kavanaugh will be a Supreme Court Justice by Monday. A job for life. One of the 9 protectors of the Constitution, the lodestone of the American democracy. The vote will be 54-45.  No-one will back off the party lines. His decisions have never been overturned by the Supreme Court. He’s a conservative but he’s not the devil.But yesterday I said he failed the job application because he cracked under pressure. He cried, he whined, he raged, he got matters of law wrong. I called him a snowflake. I got a number of emails and texts getting stuck into me for that. One called me sanctimonious. All said how would I cope under the accusation of sexual harassment.That’s not the point. Kavanaugh's job is a unique one. At the centre of American law and society. He will face far greater firestorms than this allegation based on vague memories from decades ago. With his vast skill, he should have mounted a better defence of himself that he did. Clarence Thomas went through much more with greater dignity. Brett will need to harden up as he has many enemies.I want to congratulate the government on their Construction Skills Action Plan. Finally, someone got to the nub of the problems that we’ve had with construction and infrastructure for so long. The government also provides construction with a fifth of their work and so now they’re using their purchasing power to get construction back into line. Whoever pays the piper picks the tune.They’ve highlighted an industry that doesn’t plan for the future and whose cut throat competition has meant they’ve actually cut their own throat. An industry that makes up a fifth of our economy and hires a quarter of million people but should really be hiring hundred thousand more. I think the productivity constraints in construction is a far greater threat to our financial well being than any government tinkering with labour lawsThe government is often criticised for not having a clue about business and driving us backwards. Well yesterday is proof that they’re not without a few tricks of their own. You wonder why something like this didn’t happen years ago.And finally, I can’t wait for this South Africa test on the high veldt. It should be a cracker. Next year during the World Cup I think we’ll look back at the Wellington loss and realise how valuable it was for resetting the Abs mindset. And I’m so glad for jack Goodhue. I remember a while back plumping for Ryan Crotty. A Sports dude told me I was an idiot. Crotty wasn’t first grade.  He called him a journeyman. A player without the flash. That was exactly what I liked about him. And now that sports dude is running a B and B in Bali. Enuf said. But Goodhue is the same but I think even better.To have Sonny Bill and Jack Goodhue running at the hearts of the Boks is going to be a very exciting thing to see

For the last year or so, Jack Goodhue has been the future for the All Blacks in terms of their midfield and now he's their present as well after being selected alongside Sonny Bill Williams in a strong side to play South Africa.If the 23-year-old centre does the basics well at Loftus Versfeld on Sunday morning, and trusts himself and the players around him, it will probably see him cement his position in the No 13 jersey ahead of Ryan Crotty (named on the reserves bench) and Anton Lienert-Brown (left out altogether)."He's playing well; not to say that Ryan's not, but he's playing very well and we want to see that combination of him and Sonny," coach Steve Hansen said. "We last saw it in the French series. We know a lot about Ryan and Jack but we don't know a lot about Sonny and Jack. All year we've been trying to work out what's our best combination in that area for the future and this is an opportunity to do that."Predictably, Owen Franks is back at tighthead prop, with No 8 Kieran Read and halfback Aaron Smith also returning as the All Blacks seek to overturn their defeat by the Springboks in Wellington three weeks ago.It's Goodhue's selection which stands out, though, for his youth and relative inexperience and what it represents in terms of the selectors' thinking.The 30-year-old Crotty has been a dependable player and unlucky too given his terrible run of injuries and in particular concussions. Crotty is also a more dangerous attacker than many give him credit for, but there is a sense of a changing of the guard in Goodhue's selection and it's up to him to make the most of it.Goodhue's last test was off the bench against the Boks in Wellington and he brought a directness and calmness to the attack which was probably missing elsewhere from Hansen's men. Such is his level-headedness, he's unlikely to be fazed by the potential enormity of his selection even allowing for the fact he has played only five tests and started only one alongside Williams."For a young guy he's got an old head on him," Hansen said. "He plays really maturely. He's a traditional centre, I think, in that he's got the ability to put people into space. He's a good reader on defence and he's got a bit of gas as well.""It was a pretty straightforward team to pick, really, to be honest, even in talking about what we want to do with Jack and that was a pretty easy one too."Another talking point is the backline cover on the bench, where Richie Mo'unga will be given another chance to repeat his impact from that position last weekend against Argentina in Buenos Aires, with Crotty being given a relatively unfamiliar role there and TJ Perenara resuming his back-up role to Aaron Smith.Hansen said it was probably too much to ask from Damian McKenzie, now with the team in Johannesburg after he flew home from Buenos Aires due to a family bereavement, to back it up with a playing role on Sunday."Damian had to fly home from Argentina and then back so he's had an extra flight. To throw another game in as well, he probably doesn't need that," Hansen said.Likewise, Lienert-Brown had relatively high recent playing minutes, albeit off the bench mainly, and was due for a rest.Lock Brodie Retallick remains a conspicuous absentee due to a shoulder injury suffered against the Pumas in Nelson last month but there is an experience and solidity to the match-day squad that the All Blacks will need for what has become a highly-anticipated test despite the fact they've already won the Rugby Championship."It brings a lot of experience and firepower and I think we're going to need it," Hansen said regarding the return of his heavy artillery. "They're a pretty confident side at the moment, the Boks."They've grown another arm and a leg since they knocked us over in Wellington. I thought they played really well against Aussie and they'll be looking forward to fronting up again on Saturday."All Blacks team to play South Africa at Loftus Versfeld at 4.05am on Sunday:...

Millions of viewers saw All Black Ryan Crotty get knocked out - again - in last weekend's test against the Wallabies. A bandwagon to retire him was soon rolling, propelled by the media. Was all this armchair analysis fair or helpful?

Millions of viewers saw All Black Ryan Crotty get knocked out - again - in last weekend's test against the Wallabies. A bandwagon to retire him was soon rolling, propelled by the media. Was all this armchair analysis fair or helpful?

A former league and union player says that Ryan Crotty probably shouldn't play again this season.There is concern for the All Black after he suffered another head injury over the weekend.Former Warriors player Shontayne Hape was forced to retire in 2013 after more than 20 concussions.He offered Radio Sport Breakfast his expertise on the matter, and says it's ultimately Crotty's decisions to retire regardless of the medical advice.LISTEN TO SHONTAYNE HAPE TALK WITH RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST ABOVE

Newstalk ZB and Radio Sport commentator Brian Ashby joins Jason Pine on Radio Sport Mornings to discuss the future of Ryan Crotty after he suffered another head injury, and also the fantastic the performance of Jack Goodhue.

LISTEN ABOVE AS TALKBACK CALLER IAN TALKS ABOUT THE SERIOUSNESS OF CONCUSSION WITH ANDREW DICKENSThe sister of Ryan Crotty has voiced her concerns over the All Black's concussion problems after the midfield back was forced out of the latest Bledisloe Cup clash in Sydney.Shea Crotty, a top basketballer who has played for the Tall Ferns, tweeted: "I want to see my brother grow old and able, not battling the brain forever."Shea Crotty...concerned for brother Ryan. Photo / PhotosportCrotty has suffered six concussions in the past 15 months, including during Super Rugby games in March and May this year.Couldn’t agree more my girl. Know how frustrated he will be but for selfish reasons I want to see my brother grow old and able, not battling the brain forever. https://t.co/2fYfGcClau— Shea Crotty (@Shea_Crotty) August 18, 2018In June, Crotty admitted repeated concussions might force him to retire."If I wasn't to bounce back from one as quickly as I tend to, then maybe you would think like that (retiring)," he says."Potentially if they start to get worse. They are really diligent with it in the environment so you meet with some experienced doctors and I do a lot of diligence around it myself."At the start of each season I get tested to make sure that I am round the same point each season."If that was starting to trend badly then that would be something I would look at a little more deeply, but until then I am happy to keep going out there and keep putting my body on the line."

Steve Hansen reckons every time he watches the Crusaders play at home he's told to pick Richie Mo'unga as his first-five ahead of Beauden Barrett."I walk away thinking 'we've already put him in team'," All Blacks coach Hansen said today as he announced his 33-player All Black squad for the Rugby Championship. "He's in the squad. He's 24 years old and he's played one test match."He's got competition from the specialist first-five in Beauden Barrett who's played 64 tests, I think it is. He's been world player of the year twice. Both of them are very good rugby players. Our job is to maximise the talent they've got and over time you'll see Richie get more tests, I'm sure."It's fair to say, then, that Hansen has heard it all before. The latest clamour over Mo'unga has come after the Crusaders No10 put in a man of the match performance for his team in their Super Rugby grand final victory over the Lions. A week before that he outplayed Barrett in the semifinal, also in Christchurch.That performance against the Hurricanes led to Hansen defending Barrett by saying Mo'unga was playing behind a "Rolls Royce" forward pack, a comment picked up by Crusaders coach Scott Robertson in the aftermath of their final win, but the fact remains test rugby is an altogether different beast.The stakes are far higher and the spotlight unremitting, especially for a first-five, which means experience is crucial. It's clear too in the demotion of Ngani Laumape that Mo'unga has had a big advantage while playing alongside Ryan Crotty.Barrett, too, hasn't had the luxury of playing behind a pack like that possessed by the Crusaders. But as an All Black No10, the 27-year-old's ability to set a test match agenda and navigate his team around the pitch with precision and occasional X-factor marks him out as a special player and one, rightly, who has Hansen's full backing."I think about a bloke before a World Cup we went to and everyone wanted us to drop Dan Carter," Hansen said with reference to the last tournament in 2015. "But he had one ingredient that the other blokes didn't have and that was experience. You saw that experience come out in the big moments."We have to build slowly with Richie and build his experience but in the meantime we have got a player in Beauden who has been the best player in the world for the last two years. We won't be in any rush to shift him."It's also probable that Mo'unga won't make the match day 23 for the All Blacks first Bledisloe Cup test against Australia in Sydney a week on Saturday. Damian McKenzie's versatility and ability to cover first-five and fullback means he is likely to keep Mo'unga off the reserves bench, but Hansen noted that Mo'unga, who made his test debut as a replacement against France in Dunedin in June, was playing at an extremely high level."Richie couldn't have done any more than he's done this year with the Crusaders. He's been outstanding," Hansen said."Anybody in the Canterbury [Crusaders] team could have been in the side. That's how good a team they are. That's why I said they have a Rolls Royce forward pack and they have a Rolls Royce team. That's why they won the competition. They're well coached and have some great players."

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson joins D'arcy and Goran to discuss the side he has named to face the Sharks this Saturday night in the Super Rugby quarter final.  Kieran Read and Ryan Crotty have been named, despite injury concerns.LISTEN ABOVE AS SCOTT ROBERTSON SPEAKS TO D'ARCY AND GORAN 

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson joins D'arcy and Goran to discuss the side he has named to face the Sharks this Saturday night in the Super Rugby quarter final.  Kieran Read and Ryan Crotty have been named, despite injury concerns.LISTEN ABOVE AS SCOTT ROBERTSON SPEAKS TO D'ARCY AND GORAN 

Crusaders assistant coach Jason Ryan joins D'arcy and Goran to discuss their Super Rugby quarter-final against the Sharks.  He says Kieran Read and Ryan Crotty should be good to go for the big clash.LISTEN ABOVE AS JASON RYAN SPEAKS TO D'ARCY AND GORAN

Crusaders assistant coach Jason Ryan joins D'arcy and Goran to discuss their Super Rugby quarter-final against the Sharks.  He says Kieran Read and Ryan Crotty will be good to go.LISTEN ABOVE AS JASON RYAN SPEAKS TO D'ARCY AND GORAN

LISTEN TO SCOTT ROBERTSON TALK WITH CRAIG CUMMING ABOVEThe Crusaders will be without All Blacks front rowers Joe Moody, Owen Franks and Codie Taylor for their match against the Blues in Christchurch on Saturday.Moody injured a knee and an ankle in the win over the Highlanders last weekend and was never a chance to play, but prop Franks and hooker Taylor have been rested before next weekend's quarter-final at their fortress.All Blacks lock Scott Barrett is also rested, but skipper Sam Whitelock will play, as will No8 Kieran Read, who made his return to the Crusaders from back surgery in their big win over the Highlanders last weekend.Fullback David Havili has also been rested, with Israel Dagg - not considered last weekend despite being fit - making his long-awaited return. In total, Crusaders coach Scott Robertson has made six changes to the starting team who beat the Highlanders 45-22.The Crusaders still feature a strong backline, including first-five Richie Mo'unga, sound midfield pairing Ryan Crotty and Jack Goodue, and wings George Bridge and Seta Tamanivalu.Otago hooker Sam Anderson-Heather has been named on the reserves bench and could make his Crusaders debut.Further south, the Highlanders will also be without a host of All Blacks, with Ben Smith, Aaron Smith and Luke Whitelock being rested, as per the agreement between the All Blacks and the New Zealand Super Rugby franchisesLoose forward Elliot Dixon, midfielder Rob Thompson and hooker Ash Dixon have been left out of the squad as well.Crusaders team to play the Blues in Christchurch on Saturday, kick-off 7.35pm is: Israel Dagg, Seta Tamanivalu, Jack Goodhue, Ryan Crotty, George Bridge, Richie Mo'unga, Mitchell Drummond, Kieran Read, Matt Todd, Jordan Taufua, Sam Whitelock, Quinten Strange, Michael Alaalatoa, Andrew Makalio, Tim Perry.Reserves: Sam Anderson-Heather, Wyatt Crockett, Donald Brighouse, Luke Romano, Pete Samu, Bryn Hall, Mitchell Hunt, Manasa Mataele.

LISTEN TO SCOTT ROBERTSON TALK WITH CRAIG CUMMING ABOVEThe Crusaders will be without All Blacks front rowers Joe Moody, Owen Franks and Codie Taylor for their match against the Blues in Christchurch on Saturday.Moody injured a knee and an ankle in the win over the Highlanders last weekend and was never a chance to play, but prop Franks and hooker Taylor have been rested before next weekend's quarter-final at their fortress.All Blacks lock Scott Barrett is also rested, but skipper Sam Whitelock will play, as will No8 Kieran Read, who made his return to the Crusaders from back surgery in their big win over the Highlanders last weekend.Fullback David Havili has also been rested, with Israel Dagg - not considered last weekend despite being fit - making his long-awaited return. In total, Crusaders coach Scott Robertson has made six changes to the starting team who beat the Highlanders 45-22.The Crusaders still feature a strong backline, including first-five Richie Mo'unga, sound midfield pairing Ryan Crotty and Jack Goodue, and wings George Bridge and Seta Tamanivalu.Otago hooker Sam Anderson-Heather has been named on the reserves bench and could make his Crusaders debut.Further south, the Highlanders will also be without a host of All Blacks, with Ben Smith, Aaron Smith and Luke Whitelock being rested, as per the agreement between the All Blacks and the New Zealand Super Rugby franchisesLoose forward Elliot Dixon, midfielder Rob Thompson and hooker Ash Dixon have been left out of the squad as well.Crusaders team to play the Blues in Christchurch on Saturday, kick-off 7.35pm is: Israel Dagg, Seta Tamanivalu, Jack Goodhue, Ryan Crotty, George Bridge, Richie Mo'unga, Mitchell Drummond, Kieran Read, Matt Todd, Jordan Taufua, Sam Whitelock, Quinten Strange, Michael Alaalatoa, Andrew Makalio, Tim Perry.Reserves: Sam Anderson-Heather, Wyatt Crockett, Donald Brighouse, Luke Romano, Pete Samu, Bryn Hall, Mitchell Hunt, Manasa Mataele.

Alex, Ben, Matt and Adam chat about the weekend's international rugby action, the Blitz Bokke, Wilco Louw's looming spa day and how Ryan Crotty is the Gandalf/Lt. Richard Winters of the rugby world. Alex loses his temper when talking about the Wallabies kit and Ben has a confession, buried late-on in the pod on purpose (naughty naughty!) Music from bensound.com.

Some good signs at All Blacks training in Auckland today.Radio Sport rugby editor Nigel Yalden went along, and says all of the injured All Blacks took part in the open portion of this morning's session at Mt Smart Stadium.Sam Whitelock, Ryan Crotty and Sam Cane looked comfortable, though there was nothing overly strenuous to start.Kieran Read was also actively involved in the warm up as he builds to a return to rugby, and he was very vocal as well.Tighthead prop Nepo Laulala was another training with the group while a couple of handshakes for loosehead prop Karl Tu'inukuafe suggests that he could be in line for test debut off the bench this weekend.One big name out is Sonny Bill Williams will miss the series after having surgery on his knee, leaving the door open for a new-look midfield.Williams started 13 of the All Blacks 14 tests in 2017, missing the third British and Irish Lions match due to suspension.Williams will link back up with the All Blacks later this week, and regular midfield partner Ryan Crotty says he'll be crucial to how they prepare.Crotty says when Williams has been in the 12 jumper those around him have helped him prepare for his tests, so it's his turn to return the favour.The All Blacks midfield combination will be revealed when the team to face France is named on Thursday. LISTEN TO NIGEL YALDEN TALK WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN

Some good signs at All Blacks training in Auckland today.Radio Sport rugby editor Nigel Yalden went along, and says all of the injured All Blacks took part in the open portion of this morning's session at Mt Smart Stadium.Sam Whitelock, Ryan Crotty and Sam Cane looked comfortable, though there was nothing overly strenuous to start.Kieran Read was also actively involved in the warm up as he builds to a return to rugby, and he was very vocal as well.Tighthead prop Nepo Laulala was another training with the group while a couple of handshakes for loosehead prop Karl Tu'inukuafe suggests that he could be in line for test debut off the bench this weekend.One big name out is Sonny Bill Williams will miss the series after having surgery on his knee, leaving the door open for a new-look midfield.Williams started 13 of the All Blacks 14 tests in 2017, missing the third British and Irish Lions match due to suspension.Williams will link back up with the All Blacks later this week, and regular midfield partner Ryan Crotty says he'll be crucial to how they prepare.Crotty says when Williams has been in the 12 jumper those around him have helped him prepare for his tests, so it's his turn to return the favour.The All Blacks midfield combination will be revealed when the team to face France is named on Thursday. LISTEN TO NIGEL YALDEN TALK WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN

Former All Black and Sky rugby analyst Justin Marshall reckons the Blues will go well against the Stormers because generally the second leg of the African tour is the easier game.Marshall asks if the John Mitchell-coached Bulls be a banana peel for the Chiefs this weekend, and he's tipping the Crusaders to beat the Highlanders in Dunedin.He also reviews the Hurricanes' thrilling win over the Crusaders and the concussion concerns over Ryan Crotty and Sam Whitelock.LISTEN ABOVE AS JUSTIN MARSHALL SPEAKS TO THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson on his side to face the Highlanders, and what happened last week when they lost to the Hurricanes. Ryan Crotty is unavailable after suffering a head knock last week, although Sam Whitelock returns.LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH D'ARCY ABOVE 

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson on his side to face the Highlanders, and what happened last week when they lost to the Hurricanes. Ryan Crotty is unavailable after suffering a head knock last week, although Sam Whitelock returns.LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH D'ARCY ABOVE 

Former All Black and Sky rugby analyst Justin Marshall reckons the Blues will go well against the Stormers because generally the second leg of the African tour is the easier game.Marshall asks if the John Mitchell-coached Bulls be a banana peel for the Chiefs this weekend, and he's tipping the Crusaders to beat the Highlanders in Dunedin.He also reviews the Hurricanes' thrilling win over the Crusaders and the concussion concerns over Ryan Crotty and Sam Whitelock.LISTEN ABOVE AS JUSTIN MARSHALL SPEAKS TO THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST

Scotty and Mils call in Jaybor Staunton, the voice of Queensland club rugby, to try figure out just how the Wallabies were so terrible last weekend and look ahead to the second Bledisloe test in Dunedin. Do the green and yellow stand a chance with the likes of Ryan Crotty playing the house down? Plus, the boys wrap up a week of quality Mitre 10 cup rugby and discuss what the Black Ferns will have to do to topple England in the World Cup final. And when will New Zealand sort itself out and establish competitions for the huge number of women rugby players? All that and more on the Short Ball. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Crusaders centre Ryan Crotty spoke to the media ahead of Super Rugby the Final, when they meet the Lions at Ellis Park on Saturday.

Stephen Ferris, Kev McLaughlin, Isaac Boss, Pat McCarry and host Andy McGeady on The Hard Yards. 1:20 - Fez on his favourite coffee shops in Auckland 4:30 - Why Peter O'Mahony is a great choice to captain the Lions 8:00 - Insight into what it's like to play against Peter O'Mahony 10:16 - Sean O'Brien starting ahead of Sam Warburton 15:30 - Are the boys surprised that Johnny Sexton isn't starting on Saturday? 18:30 - The shock inclusions of Liam Williams and Elliot Daly 22:00 - What does Leigh Halfpenny offer from the bench? 25:15 - The lads look at the New Zealand team which has Kieran Read and Ryan Crotty back 27:45 - Bossy talks us through Aaron Smith's game and what makes him so good 29:45 - The needle between Sonny Bill Williams and Ben Te'o 33:35 - Prediction for the Lions vs All Blacks 35:10 - The situation with Rassie Erasmus at Munster 39:45 - Is there someone at Munster that could take over from Rassie Erasmus? 41:00 - The boy look at Ireland's tour of Japan 44:50 - Hayley O'Connor from Ladbrokes give us the odds for the first test, Royal Ascot and Rassie Erasmus' future at Munster

Blake, James and Richard celebrate their one year anniversary by yapping on about Super Rugby, Ryan Crotty, and the Six Nations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Blake, James and Richard celebrate their one year anniversary by yapping on about Super Rugby, Ryan Crotty, and the Six Nations.