Rugby: Crusader stood down for breach

Crusaders halfback Kahn Fotuali'i. Photo / Getty Images

Breaching a team protocol means halfback Kahn Fotuali'i will take no part in the Crusaders' Super 14 rugby match against the Brumbies on Friday night.

Fotuali'i has been stood down for by team management for the match in Christchurch for breaching a recovery protocol dictated by the team after their 35-40 loss to the Bulls in Pretoria last weekend.

"It's an unfortunate thing to happen at this time of the season but we're not going to let it distract us," Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said today.

"We're going to focus solely on our very important match against the Brumbies on Friday night.

"Kahn regrets the breach and will be doing his best to help prepare the team to win on Friday."

Fotuali'i has been in impressive form for the Crusaders this season, holding down a starting spot ahead of All Black Andrew Ellis for a month before starting the game against the Bulls on the reserves bench.

The Crusaders need to beat the Brumbies to qualify for the semifinals.

- NZPA