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Crusaders players start to celebrate their win against the Waratahs as the full time whistle sounds following the Super 14 Rugby Final match between the Crusaders and the NSW Waratahs, AMI Stadium, Christchurch, New Zealand, Saturday, May 31, 2008. The Crusaders beat the Waratahs 20-12. AAP Image/NZPA, Wayne Drought
It was only a couple of months ago that the Crusaders were billed as a ‘rebuilding team.’ With only McCaw, Ellis and Thorn having top-level Test experience, no one expected a Blackadder-led team to progress to the semis of the Super 14.
On closer analysis, with the recent announcement of the Tri-Nations squad, any doubters that the Crusaders were riding on their luck last season will have to think twice.
The team of Graham Henry, Wayne Smith and Steve Hansen are never one who would take risks when it comes to selection for a premier world Test competition.
Apart from old-heads Mccaw and Thorn, four other Crusaders (Wyatt Crockett, Owen Franks, Isaac Ross and Kieren Read) have been called up to the Tri-Nations squad, while Ben Franks and Stephen Brett have been called up as cover for the 30-men team.
Including George Whitelock, who was called up for the Test match against Italy, the Crusaders now potentially boast nine All Blacks for this year’s internationals. And if we include Dan Carter, Andy Ellis and possibly Chris Jack, the Canterbury franchise would have twelve potential All Blacks come the 2010 Super 14.
Long gone are the days where fans wrote off the Crusaders after years of dominance in the Super 14. A new wave of young All Blacks will don the red and black jersey of Canterbury.
But for now, all eyes will be on how the stars of the future take their chances at the Tri-Nations. Isaac Ross has won himself a starting berth, while Read and Owen Franks have earned themselves a place on the bench for the opener.
Brett has had positive reviews from the coaching staff and might be given a cameo appearance, while Crockett should see a bit of game time, too.
Whether or not these fringe players can establish themselves as regular call-ups will all boil down to how they take their chances, even if its a few minutes.
One does not have to look far to see such an example.
Owen Franks’ performance in the second half of the Italian Test was enough to prove to the selectors his capabilities, which has resulted in him winning a spot on the bench, edging out John Afoa.
The days ahead for the Crusaders are bright, and if all goes well, one would be able to say that of the All Blacks, too.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.