The All Blacks have suffered their first injury blow in South Africa, with coach Dave Rennie forced to call up a front-row replacement.
The Crusaders appear to have taken a page out of Rassie Erasmus' book, after experimenting with backline star Leicester Fainga'anuku in a hybrid forward role.
Experienced centre David Havili has recommitted to the Crusaders and New Zealand Rugby after agreeing terms on a contract extension to 2027.
Injury woes continue to haunt dynamic All Blacks wing/fullback Will Jordan, and the Crusaders have confirmed he will not play at all during the Super Rugby Pacific season in 2024.
New Zealand and Crusaders utility back Will Jordan has revealed that he is hoping to make more appearances at fullback in the international arena.
The Crusaders claimed a seventh consecutive title as they were crowned Super Rugby Pacific champions thanks to a nailbiting 25-20 win over the Chiefs.