Robinson returns for Crusaders
May 16, 2002

The return of former All Black centre Mark Robinson is the only change the Crusaders have made for this Saturday's Super 12 semi-final clash with the Highlanders.

Otherwise the Crusaders will have the same team who smashed most Super 12 records with their 96-19 drubbing of the Waratahs at Jade Stadium last Saturday.

Robinson, recovered from a bruised rib cartilage which he suffered against the Hurricanes on May 4, will replace Nathan Mauger in the No 13 jersey.

"These decisions aren't easy at this time of the year and Nathan has been playing very well," Deans said last night," commented coach Robbie Deans.

"But we've decided on the mix for this week and now the onus is on this group of 22 to represent the rest."

With the versatile Daryl Gibson in the reserves, Nathan Mauger has also missed a seat on the bench.

All Black halfback Justin Marshall, who took a knock to an ankle against the Waratahs and did not finish Tuesday's training, was untroubled yesterday.

Twelve of the starting 15 have played in either 10 or the full 11 round-robin games.

Highlanders coach Laurie Mains is expected to name his side today.

Crusaders: Leon MacDonald, Marika Vunibaka, Mark Robinson, Caleb Ralph, Aaron Mauger, Andrew Mehrtens, Justin Marshall, Scott Robertson, Richard McCaw, Norm Maxwell, Chris Jack, Reuben Thorne (capt), Greg Somerville, Mark Hammett, Greg Feek. Reserves: Ben Blair, Daryl Gibson, Ben Hurst, Sam Broomhall or Bradley Mika, Johnny Leo'o, David Hewett, Corey Flynn.

Live Sports

Communication error please reload the page.

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices