Hatchets will be swinging at the Crusaders selection table as Kieran Read and Colin Slade return to confront the Blues this weekend.

The 18-10 loss to the Chiefs might see Tyler Bleyendaal relegated to the reserve bench but it is how coach Todd Blackadder rejigs the rest of his team that remains a mystery.

Captain and No8 Read was rested from the Super Rugby opener but certain to start at Eden Park on Friday night, meaning Luke Whitelock must make way for the All Blacks star.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said the challenge for his team is to execute the simple things correctly.

In Super Rugby matches this Friday, the Crusaders will take on the Blues at 6.35pm while the Rebels face the Cheetahs at 8.40pm.

On Saturday, the Stormers will take on the Hurricanes at 5.10am, the Chiefs then take on the Highlanders at 6.35pm while the Waratahs play the Reds at 8.40pm.

The Force will then take on the Brumbies at 11pm.


Story by: Aliki Bia