All Blacks midfielder Leicester Fainga’anuku has been handed a new role and will start at openside flanker for the Crusaders in their first game at their new stadium.
Fainga’anuku, who typically plays in the centres or on the wing, will be thrown into his new role against a Waratahsside coming off a strong victory over Moana Pasifika, but head coach Rob Penney said the All Black is relishing the opportunity.
“Leicester’s been keen to explore that opportunity,” Penney said.
“This stadium felt like the right place to do it.
“He loves big environments, loves pressure moments, and we feel he’ll add real value against this opposition.”
Ethan Blackadder’s absence through injury has given Fainga’anuku the chance to move into the forward pack, but has meant Johnny Lee, who impressed on debut last month in the number 7 jersey, was named on the bench.
Leicester Fainga'anuku will start as a flanker against the Waratahs for the Crusaders. Photo / Photosport
Fainga’anuku said being able to walk on to the pitch at One NZ stadium for the first time with the Crusaders highlights how much the new ground means to the region.
“It’s real beautiful and a great representation of our region,” he said.
“This place has become the heart of the city, and it’s something our people deserve.”
Fainga’anuku said since he and the team heard about the Super round being hosted in Christchurch, they had been excited and are now ready to put on a show.
Elsewhere, David Havili returns to the starting line-up in midfield and will captain the team, while Johnny McNicholl continues his run at fullback as Will Jordan recovers from injury.
The Crusaders are on a poor run of form, having lost their previous two games to the Western Force and Reds in Australia.
“We’re disappointed with how the last two weeks went because it’s not us,” first five‑eighth Taha Kemara said.
