Sevu Reece to start for the Crusaders against the Hurricanes on Sunday

2019 Super Rugby Top Try Scorer, Sevu Reece has been named in the starting line-up for the Crusaders against the Hurricanes in their first Super Rugby Aotearoa match on Sunday.

Head Coach Scott Robertson has included eight All Blacks in the starting side, and the Crusaders will be without regular Captain Scott Barrett.

Barrett has been ruled out of this game due to a foot injury, meaning hooker Codie Taylor has an opportunity to Captain the side for the first time.

Returning lock Sam Whitelock joins the starting line up alongside Mitch Dunshea.

Robertson says the team is excited to prepare for a game this week and there is a lot of excitement in the squad.

He adds home games are really important and win in an away game is a big task so the Hurricanes will be protecting their home ground.

The Hurricanes have made two changes in their starting line-up, with Vaea Fifita starting at locks and Ardie Savea to start at number 8.

The Crusaders will take on the Hurricanes at 3.35pm Sunday while the Blues will face the Chiefs at 7.05pm tomorrow.

[Source: Crusaders.co.nz]

Crusaders team to play the Hurricanes:

Joe Moody, Codie Taylor ©,

Michael Alaalatoa,

Samuel Whitelock,

Mitchell Dunshea,

Cullen Grace,

Billy Harmon,

Whetukamokamo Douglas (VC),

Bryn Hall, Richie Mo'unga,

George Bridge, Jack Goodhue,

Braydon Ennor,

Sevu Reece,

Will Jordan.

RESERVES: Brodie McAlister, George Bower, Oliver Jager, Luke Romano, Ethan Blackadder, Mitchell Drummond, David Havili (VC), Leicester Faingaanuku