Vodafone Flying Fijians center Nemani Nadolo will not feature for the Crusaders in this weekend’s Super Rugby opener against the Chiefs.

This has been confirmed to Fijivillage by Crusaders Communications Manager Juliet Calder.

Calder said Nadolo arrived at the Crusaders camp last Saturday and he needs more time with the team during training.

She added the players are looking forward to playing alongside the Fijian giant.

Nadolo stands at 1.95m and weighs around 130kg and head coach Todd Blackadder is enthusiastic about the intimidation factor he would bring to his backline.

Meanwhile, Super Rugby champion Chiefs will most likely have to field Tasman flanker Tevita Kolomatangi in their season opening match against the Crusaders on Friday but coach Dave Rennie said injuries are improving.

The Chiefs have been heavily hit by injuries and have already lost Sam Cane and Tanerau Latimer.

Cane twisted his leg in Friday’s Super Rugby warm up while Latimer is still sitting out on the sidelines with a shoulder and elbow injury.

The Crusaders host the Chiefs at 6.35pm this Friday.

On Saturday, the Blues take on the Highlanders at 6.35pm while the Brumbies play the Reds in Canberra at 8.40pm.

At 3.05am Sunday, the Sharks take on the Hurricanes while the Lions play the Stormers at 5.10am Sunday.


Story by: Aliki Bia