Thursday Morning Round Up

Crusaders team to play Highlanders

Sam Whitelock returns to the starting line-up to captain the team, and vice-captain Ryan Crotty will also return at second-five.  That sees David Havili shift back to fullback and Israel Dagg move to the wing.

Highlanders team for Crusaders

Ben and Aaron Smith return to the backline that features Richard Buckman on the left wing and the hard running Rob Thompson in the midfield.

Delany returns to play for the Bay

Mike Delany has returned from England to play for the Bay of Plenty Steamers in the upcoming Mitre 10 Cup season. Full story

Streather forced to retire from rugby

Former Saracens centre Tim Streather has been forced to retired from the game due to a knee injury. Full story

Getting to know Marcus Watson, including what made him sign for Wasps