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Round 16 of the Super Rugby competition gets underway tonight in Christchurch with what could easily be the match of the weekend as the Crusaders host the Waratahs at AMI Stadium. We’ll have live scores from 5.35pm AEST.
We have two sides that know how to score tries and plenty of internationals on display who will be keen to turn in strong individual performances.
For the hosts this is an important match as they try to maintain their spot as a wildcard qualifier for the finals.
Despite a loss to the table-topping Chiefs last week the Crusaders are in a good place winning their four matches prior to that.
Coach Todd Blackadder will be concerned about the poor form of Israel Dagg and Robbie Fruen and the injury to Sam Whitelock who has been consistently the Crusaders’ best forward this season.
All in all though with Carter and Read back on the paddock and Tom Taylor’s radar boot still working he should be looking for a win.
For the Waratahs this match is about belief. Only the optimistic to the point of being delusional are still talking about the Waratahs making the finals; but that doesn’t mean there is nothing to play for.
Coach Michael Cheika is building something special at the Waratahs, you can feel it.
Every match the team wins they believe in his systems a little more and perhaps more importantly the fans start to believe again too.
Beating the Crusaders in Christchurch would be a major fillip for the team who last beat the red and blacks way back in 2004.
The Waratahs will also want to avoid the perception of a late season slide after being pipped at the post by the Rebels last week.
It is worth remembering that this is the last weekend before the June internationals that we can see the New Zealand (and South African) sides in action.
It is similarly the final hit out for the Wallaby squad members before they assemble in camp.
For fringe contenders who still harbour hopes of making Robbie Deans’ Wallaby six-pack to be announced in a couple of weeks time this represents another chance to impress the selectors.
In short, this is a game well worth watching on a Friday afternoon. Join us here for all the action from 5:30pm AEST.
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.