Super Rugby
Dagg to make his return from bench
ESPN Staff
May 19, 2015
Dagg set to return for the grand final rematch © Getty Images
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The Crusaders have confirmed All Blacks fullback Israel Dagg will make his return off the bench in Sydney on Saturday. The 26-year-old has not played since suffering a calf injury in the Crusaders 25-20 loss to the Highlanders in April.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder confirmed on Tuesday Dagg would be considered for the Crusaders clash against the Waratahs, but the fullback is likely to return through the bench.

"We'd be putting him at risk and our preparation at risk too, to throw him in the deep end there. Because he's been out so long, it's probably easier to put him on the bench."

Dagg will be under pressure to reclaim his starting No15 jersey with utility Tom Taylor impressing during his time in the fullback role in recent matches.

"He's really stood up, ever since the Bulls fame, [which was] a real turning point for him," Blackadder said. "He's been playing really well, week in week out, and we want to reward that as well."

Blackadder also faces the selection dilemma in the flank position with Richie McCaw returning to full fitness while Matt Todd has continually proved himself in the No.7 jersey throughout the season. Coming off the bench in the Crusaders 58-17 hammering of the Reds two weeks ago, Blackadder said McCaw was "looking really dangerous at the moment".

"It's always going to be a tough call when you've got two world class 7s. Matt Todd played really well last time, but [McCaw's] keen to get out there."

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