All Blacks captain and Flanker Richie McCaw could join loose forward Kieran Read in missing the Crusaders Super Rugby season opener against the Chiefs in Christchurch.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has confirmed that No. 8 Read will miss the match next Friday and that has always been the plan.

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw is expected to be eased in to the Super Rugby season with Blackadder likely to start with Matt Todd on the open side flank against the current Super Rugby champions.

Blackadder said that his selection will be dictated by early season form and Todd has impressed in the Crusaders practices and warm ups.

Blackadder’s other options are the Whitelock brothers, George and Luke.

The Crusaders coach said that Read would be available for the Crusaders second round game against the Blues in Auckland.

The Crusaders will meet the Chiefs in their opening clash next Friday.

Next Saturday, the Highlanders play the Blues while Brumbies play the Reds.

The Sharks take on the Hurricanes on Sunday morning.

This Sunday the Cheetahs take on the Lions while the Sharks play the Bulls.

Story by: Rusiate Baleilevuka.
Source: superrugby.com