Crusaders' All Black pair cleared to play

Richie Mo’unga and Jack Goodhue have been ruled “medically clear and available” for selection, Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson told Fairfax.

The All Black pair are set to rejoin the competition leading side – who have won seven of their nine games this season – when they head to Melbourne to face the Rebels this weekend.

Goodhue has not played since suffering a hamstring injury while scoring a try against the Lions in week seven, while Mo’unga has faced a longer layoff after breaking his jaw after a head clash with Stormers prop Steven Kitshoff in week three.

Mitch Hunt and veteran Mike Delany have filled Mo’unga’s boots admirably, while Tim Bateman was donned Goodhue’s regular No. 13 jersey.

Bateman could potentially remain in the starting lineup for the Crusaders if Ryan Crotty is ruled out.

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The All Blacks midfielder took a beating against the Brumbies on Saturday, and looked at times as if he would need to leave the field.

“He got a bang on the knee, and a bang on the shoulder but he was incredible,” Robertson said. “His vision and ability to make those cross-kicks. Just that calmness and his combination with Tim Bateman has been superb for us.”

Robertson also commented on the method to picking his side when you have to consider injury and All Blacks rest.

“We have got a couple of players coming back and then you have got your All Blacks to be rested,” Robertson said. “So there is a real art to it. But the boys care and are fighting for each other. That is what you look for as a coach, and then you just build momentum until the end of the season.”

The Crusaders are currently at the top of the Super Rugby standings after eleven weeks of competition, though they have played one more game than their closest rival, the Hurricanes.

Saturday’s match against the Rebels will end the side’s two-game road trip.

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