Crusaders team to face the Highlanders in Round One
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It’s been 235 days since your Crusaders last took the field, but that wait ends this week.
It’s game week, and come Friday, we will be running out under the roof at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin to take on the Highlanders in the very first game of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.
With experienced leaders returning and a strong bench ready to set the tone for the season, there’s plenty here for Crusaders fans to feel excited about.
As Head Coach Rob Penney says, “There’s always a bit of excitement going around in week one.”
Finlay Brewis will make his long‑awaited return from injury to anchor the loosehead side, joining George Bell and Seb Calder to form a strong front row.
Antonio Shalfoon and Jamie Hannah will lock the scrum together, while flankers Dom Gardiner and Ethan Blackadder will bring relentless energy.
Penney’s been encouraged by what he’s seen from the loose forward group over the preseason.
“They’ve really embraced the opportunity to create a bit of their own way in this group.”
Christian Lio‑Willie rounds out the loose forward trio with his physicality and ability to link play.
Noah Hotham takes charge at halfback, pairing with Rivez Reihana in a 9/10 combination built on tempo and control.
“The competition at 10 remains fierce. It’ll be a challenge and a contest throughout the year. Rivez earned the right to start, and Taha’s opportunities are going to come quickly,” says Penney.
Leicester Fainga’anuku lines up on the left wing with his trademark power, while Captain David Havili steers the midfield, working alongside Braydon Ennor.
When asked about Fainga’anuku’s role, Penney says, “Leicester’s got a wide and varied skill set. He’s got a bit of licence, so he’ll be able to unleash himself when he sees the opportunities.”
Sevu Reece brings finishing class on the right wing, while Chay Fihaki slots in at fullback to round out a confident and composed backline.
The bench brings serious punch with Will Jordan ready to inject himself into the game, and a full international front row waiting to add power when needed.
“We’ve got a bit of a bomb squad off the bench, which is exciting,” says Penney.
Tahlor Cahill and Corey Kellow bring versatility across the forwards, while Kyle Preston covers the backs with composure and Taha Kemara will inject spark in the later stages.
Penney says the entire group has earned their shot, especially with several All Blacks returning via managed workloads.
Crusaders fans can also expect a fierce atmosphere under the roof, something Penney loves about this fixture.
“The Zoo’s the Zoo, isn’t it? It’s tradition down there and it always adds to the atmosphere on a Friday night.”
This is a good South Island derby, it'll be ultra-competitive. You don't
Crusaders team to face The Highlanders:
1. Finlay Brewis
2. George Bell
3. Seb Calder
4. Antonio Shalfoon
5. Jamie Hannah
6. Dom Gardiner
7. Ethan Blackadder
8. Christian Lio-Willie
9. Noah Hotham
10. Rivez Reihana
11. Leicester Fainga’anuku
12. (C) David Havili
13. Braydon Ennor
14. Sevu Reece
15. Chay Fihaki
Impact
16. Codie Taylor
17. George Bower
18. Fletcher Newell
19. Tahlor Cahill
20. Corey Kellow
21. Kyle Preston
22. Taha Kemara
23. Will Jordan
Players unavailable for selection due to injury:
Macca Springer: Quad, 1–2 weeks
Kershawl Sykes‑Martin: Hip, 1–2 weeks
Johnny McNicholl: Hamstring, 3 weeks
Liam Jack: Hamstring, 6–8 weeks
Maloni Kunawave: Hamstring, 6–8 weeks
Cooper Roberts: Stress fracture (fibula), 6–8 weeks
Cullen Grace: Knee, return time currently unclear
