Rugby: Major blow to Crusaders ahead of derby

Sam Whitelock of the Crusaders walks back to the field after failing a concussion test. Photo / Getty

The Crusaders have suffered a major blow ahead of their Super Rugby derby against the Highlanders tomorrow night.

Captain Sam Whitelock has been ruled out after developing minor concussion symptoms yesterday. Whitelock exited the field early against the Hurricanes after failing a head injury assessment test, and despite initially recovering well, he now cannot complete the Post-Concussion Return to Play process.

They have a handy replacement to call upon, with Luke Romano now starting alongside Scott Barrett, and Quinten Strange being brought on to the bench. Matt Todd will now captain the side.

The Crusaders were already without Ryan Crotty, who was also ruled out due to a concussion sustained against the Hurricanes.

There is also a change on the bench, with first-five Mike Delany ruled out after jarring his knee at training, with Brett Cameron coming onto the bench as his replacement.

Crusaders: David Havili, Seta Tamanivalu, Jack Goodhue, Tim Bateman, George Bridge, Mitchell Hunt, Mitchell Drummond, Jordan Taufua, Matt Todd, Heiden Bedwell-Curtis, Luke Romano, Scott Barrett, Michael Alaalatoa, Codie Taylor, Wyatt Crockett.

Reserves: Manasa Mataele, Brett Cameron, Bryn Hall, Billy Harmon, Quinten Strange, Oliver Jager, Chris King, Ben Funnell.