A place has been left for undecided lock Brad Thorn in the 2002 Crusaders Super 12 squad named on Monday.

The Crusaders named 26 players in their squad and coach Robbie Deans said from Belfast they were yet to name a lock and a wing.

"If Brad stays we'll just be looking for a wing. He'll let us know when he's ready, but it will be some time in January. We are not pressuring him at all. It's an important decision for him. If he stays with us then that's great. If he leaves, that's his right. We've had no indication either way."

Thorn (pictured) was picked in the All Blacks touring team eight days ago, but withdrew 12 hours later. He said he was undecided whether to stick with rugby or return to rugby league, where he represented the Kangaroos and Brisbane Broncos.

Speaking from Belfast, Deans said they wanted to give Thorn an opportunity to stay in rugby and give it another crack next year if he wished.

Afato So'oalo, Rico Gear, Billy Fulton, Todd Blackadder (to Scotland), Con Barrell and Matt Sexton (retired) from the 2001 squad are not included in the new line-up. Canterbury NPC players Richard McCaw, Johnny Leo'o, Matt Mustchin and Joe Maddock have been included as reward for impressive seasons.

Deans said Aaron Mauger would be considered for both first and second five-eighths positions, even though he had only been named as a first five.

Prop Nick White, not wanted by the Blues, has been listed, as have promising Southland hooker Corey Flynn and former All Black centre Mark Robinson, who has been sidelined with injury for most of the year. Flynn, who has family in Christchurch, comes in as Mark Hammett's understudy.

Crusaders squad: Fullbacks: Ben Blair, Leon MacDonald; Wings: Marika Vunibaka, Caleb Ralph, Joe Maddock; Centres: Nathan Mauger, Mark Robinson, Daryl Gibson; Flyhalves: Andrew Mehrtens, Aaron Mauger; Scrumhalves: Ben Hurst, Justin Marshall.

No 8s: Sam Broomhall, Scott Robertson; Flankers: Richard McCaw, Johnny Leo'o, Matt Mustchin, Reuben Thorne; Locks: Norm Maxwell, Chris Jack; Props: Greg Feek, David Hewett, Greg Somerville, Nick White; Hookers: Corey Flynn, Mark Hammett. - Sapa