Super Rugby
Crusaders XV unchanged for Super Rugby final
ESPN Staff
July 31, 2014
The Crusaders' Isreal Dagg looks for a gap, Crusaders v Sharks, Super Rugby, AMI Stadium, Christchurch, July 26, 2014
The Crusaders remain unchanged from last week's semi-final winning side © Getty Images
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The Crusaders have named an unchanged side to face the Waratahs in Saturday's Super Rugby final. After a huge win over the Sharks in the semi-final last weekend, Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has kept the faith in his winning side.

Blackadder said the fact the two sides haven't played each other yet this season adds to the excitement of the contest.

"There is an unknown element, but that goes for both teams. We are just focussed on being as prepared as we can be to put in the best performance we're capable of.

"We know we have the game of our lives ahead of us but are not daunted by the challenge, we are looking forward to it. We've got a group of men who want this badly and who have the talent to do it."

Blackadder's opposite number, Michael Cheika, has also named an unchanged sides and he said he understands the threat posed by the Crusaders.

"We've got to keep pushing, holding on is not enough," he said. "We will go out there, play as we have all season and play good attacking footy and give them some trouble. The Crusaders are a powerful unit who really focus on their set piece and will be confident after taking apart a strong Sharks outfit."

Greg Growden and Russel Barrwick preview this week's Super Rugby final
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Crusaders: Israel Dagg; Kieron Fonotia, Ryan Crotty (VC), Dan Carter, Nemani Nadolo; Colin Slade, Andy Ellis; Kieran Read (C), Matt Todd, Richie McCaw; Sam Whitelock, Dominic Bird; Owen Franks, Corey Flynn, Wyatt Crocket Replacements Ben Funnell, Joe Moody, Nepo Laulala, Jimmy Tupou, Jordon Taufua, Willi Heinz, Tom Taylor, Johnny McNicholl

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