Crusaders coach, Todd Blackadder has backed Richie McCaw to last the full 80 minutes in the Super Rugby semi final against the Stormers.

McCaw has not played since the May 29th loss to the Reds because of a foot injury but Blackadder has no concerns about his captain's ability to still be on the park when Craig Joubert blows the final whistle.

Meanwhile, despite nursing the sprained ankle Kieran Read returned to a light jog at training yesterday and has been listed at number 8.

This weekend's super rugby semifinal on Saturday at 9:40pm, Reds host the Blues and on Sunday morning at 3.05am Stormers on Crusaders.

Story by: Dhanjay Deo
Source: NZ Herald