A place has been left for undecided lock Brad Thorn in the 2002 Crusaders Super 12 rugby squad named today.
The Crusaders named 26 players and coach Robbie Deans said from Belfast they were yet to name a lock and a wing.
"If Brad stays we'll just be looking for a wing.
He'll let us know when he's ready but it will be some time in January.
"We are not pressuring him at all. It's an important decision for him. If he stays with us then that's great. If he leaves, that's his right. We've had no indication either way."
Thorn was picked in the All Blacks touring team eight days ago but withdrew 12 hours later. He said he was undecided whether to stick with rugby or return to rugby league, where he represented the Kangaroos and Brisbane Broncos.
Speaking from Belfast today, Deans said they wanted to give Thorn an opportunity to stay in rugby and give it another crack next year if he wished.
Afato So'oalo, Rico Gear, Billy Fulton, Todd Blackadder (to Scotland), Con Barrell and Matt Sexton (retired) from the 2001 squad are not included in the new line up.
Canterbury NPC players Richard McCaw, Johnny Leo'o, Matt Mustchin and Joe Maddock have been included as reward for impressive seasons.
Deans said Aaron Mauger would be considered for both first and second five-eighths positions even though he had only been named as a first five.
Prop Nick White, not wanted by the Blues, has been listed as have promising Southland hooker Corey Flynn and former All Black centre Mark Robinson, who has been sidelined with injury for most of the year.
Flynn, who has family in Christchurch, comes in as Mark Hammett's understudy.
Crusaders squad (two to be added)
Fullbacks: Ben Blair, Leon MacDonald
Wings: Marika Vunibaka, Caleb Ralph, Joe Maddock.
Centres: Nathan Mauger, Mark Robinson
Second five-eighth: Daryl Gibson
First five-eighth: Andrew Mehrtens, Aaron Mauger
Halfbacks: Ben Hurst, Justin Marshall
No 8s: Sam Broomhall, Scott Robertson
Flankers: Richard McCaw, Johnny Leo'o, Matt Mustchin, Reuben Thorne
Locks: Norm Maxwell, Chris Jack
Props: Greg Feek, David Hewett, Greg Somerville, Nick White
Hookers: Corey Flynn, Mark Hammett
- NZPA
A place has been left for undecided lock Brad Thorn in the 2002 Crusaders Super 12 rugby squad named today.
The Crusaders named 26 players and coach Robbie Deans said from Belfast they were yet to name a lock and a wing.
"If Brad stays we'll just be looking for a wing.
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