Scott Barrett granted rest exemption as Crusaders name team for Reds clash

Crusaders captain Scott Barrett will lead the team again this week after being granted an exemption from New Zealand Rugby’s resting protocols.

According to the policy, All Blacks player will not be able to play in more than five Super Rugby Pacific match in a row. But there’s an exception to every rule.

Barrett will run out in the No. 4 jersey again this week after being granted an exemption due to the Crusaders’ staggering injury count.

The skipper will partner rising star Dom Gardiner in the second row when the Crusaders take on the Reds in Brisbane on Friday night.

Title holders the Crusaders have made four changes to their starting XV ahead of their clash with the Reds, including Gardiner in the second row.

Sione Havili Talitui has shifted to blindside flanker, while Christian Lio-Willie has been promoted to the starting side at No. 8.

As for the backline, there is only one change – and it’s an interesting one.

Rising star Noah Hotham will run out in the Crusaders’ starting XV for the first time on Friday night after being named at halfback.

“It’s a great chance to grow the young fella,” coach Scott Robertson said in a statement.

“He’s been superb at training and every time he’s had an opportunity on the field, and we believe this game is the one for him.”

Hotham will partner Super Rugby veteran Richie Mo’unga in the halves, while the rest of the backline remains unchanged. Dallas McLeod and Braydon Ennor will line up in the midfield again this week.

In-form winger Leicester Fainga’anuku will start on the left edge, while Pepesana Patafilo will run out in the No. 14 jersey. Fergus Burke has also retained his place at fullback.

The Crusaders’ injury toll went from bad to worse on Wednesday as coach Scott Robertson confirmed that Sevu Reece would miss the rest of the season. All Blacks Will Jordan, Ethan Blackadder, Jack Goodhue, David Havili and Sam Whitelock have also been sidelined due to injury.

Crusaders team to take on Reds

1. Joe Moody
2. Codie Taylor
3. Tamaiti Williams
4. Scott Barrett (C)
5. Dom Gardiner
6. Sione Havili Talitui
7. Tom Christie
8. Christian Lio-Willie
9. Noah Hotham
10. Richie Mo’unga
11. Leicester Fainga’anuku
12. Dallas McLeod
13. Braydon Ennor
14. Pepesana Patafilo
15. Fergus Burke

Replacements:

16. Brodie McAlister
17. George Bower
18. Seb Calder
19. Jamie Hannah
20. Corey Kellow
21. Willi Heinz
22. Will Gualter
23. Chay Fihaki