Photos: Williams factor adds spice to heated rivalry

Crusaders prop Greg Somerville (L) and Blues prop Christian Califano get in a tussle during the match in 2002. The Crusaders won 30-11. Photo / Getty Images

The latest chapter in New Zealand rugby's most intense rivalry unravels on Friday night when the Crusaders play the Blues in Christchurch.

The game has added spice this year with Crusaders lock Ali Williams coming up against his former team for the first time. Williams left the Blues last year after falling out with coach David Nucifora.

The top-of-the-table Crusaders are coming off their first loss of the season, losing 18-5 to the Chiefs last week, while the Blues have lost their last two matches and must win to get back into the top four.

Click on the link below the image to view some classic photos from past matches in this heated rivalry.