Rugby: McCaw returns for Crusaders

Richie McCaw. Photo / Getty Images

The Crusaders welcome back captain Richie McCaw for their Super 15 semifinal against the Stormers at Newlands in Cape Town this weekend.

Flanker McCaw has been sidelined following the narrow loss to the Reds in Brisbane on May 29 due to foot pain after surgery for a stress fracture.

But he has been given the all-clear to start the match ahead of Matt Todd this weekend. Also cleared from injury is No8 Kieran Read, who hurt an ankle in last weekend's Qualifier against the Sharks in Nelson but played on.

The addition of McCaw is the only change to the team which beat the Sharks 36-8 last weekend.

Hooker Corey Flynn will celebrate his 100th game for the Crusaders in this weekend's match.

Not considered due to injury were Israel Dagg (thigh) and Adam Whitelock (chest muscle).

The Crusaders team:

1. Wyatt Crockett
2. Corey Flynn
3. Owen Franks
4. Brad Thorn
5. Sam Whitelock
6. George Whitelock
7. Richie McCaw (c)
8. Kieran Read
9. Andy Ellis
10. Dan Carter
11. Zac Guildford
12. Sonny Bill Williams
13. Robbie Fruean
14. Sean Maitland
15. Tom Marshall

Reserves:
16. Quentin MacDonald
17. Ben Franks
18. Luke Romano
19. Matt Todd
20. Kahn Fotuali'i
21. Matt Berquist
22. Ryan Crotty


- HERALD ONLINE