The Crusaders have rolled the dice ahead of a crucial Super Rugby Pacific fixture, naming Leicester Fainga’anuku at openside flanker for their clash with the Waratahs.
It is a selection that has turned heads across the competition, with the All Blacks back set to start in the loose forwards for the first time in his career.
A calculated positional shift
Fainga’anuku’s move into the pack has been building over time.
The 26-year-old, who began his career on the wing, has gradually expanded his skillset, including a stint in the forwards during his time with RC Toulon.
Now, head coach Rob Penney has handed him the No.7 jersey in what could prove a defining moment in both the player’s evolution and the Crusaders’ season.
“Leicester’s been keen to explore that opportunity more and more,” said Penney. “We thought starting him in this stadium was an apt place. He’s played in big environments, big pressure moments. He loves the limelight and wants to be part of it.”
Fainga’anuku is relishing the chance to embrace a hybrid role.
“I played there a few times in France… it’s a position I’m familiar with,” he said. “It’s a bit more fun in the forwards – you get to do a bit more of the dirty work instead of the flash stuff.
“Having a forward that can do things backs can do – it’s a good growth area for our game.”
Big stage, bigger expectations
The bold selection comes as Super Round lands in Christchurch, with the Crusaders preparing to debut their new home in front of a packed crowd.
For Fainga’anuku, the occasion only adds to the excitement.
“They’ve done a heck of a job. It’s beautiful,” he said.
“This place has become the heart of the city, and it’s something that our people deserve. It’s a big weekend for Ōtautahi.”
Hooker Codie Taylor echoed the significance of the moment, describing the stadium as a venue capable of bringing the community together.
Key returns and selection calls
Fainga’anuku’s shift is part of a wider reshuffle within the Crusaders squad. Braydon Ennor returns from injury to start in midfield, while promising loose forward Johnny Lee provides cover from the bench.
The return of Taylor at hooker also strengthens the side, offering leadership and experience at a critical point in the campaign.
A season on the line
For a team used to setting the standard, the Crusaders find themselves under pressure.
Consecutive defeats in Australia have left them sixth in the standings, with little margin for error as the play-off race tightens.
Penney did not shy away from the stakes.
“Probably two weeks ago it started to feel like must-wins,” he said. “We’ve struggled a little bit… we’re leaking too many points. We’re scoring enough.
“Our balance in our game’s not quite right, but we’ve got a great group and they’re working really hard. This may be the thing we need to bring us some momentum.”
Risk meets opportunity
Fainga’anuku’s inclusion at flanker represents both risk and opportunity.
His power in contact and ability at the breakdown could offer a new attacking dimension, particularly around the fringes.
At the same time, the positional switch will test his defensive discipline and awareness in tighter exchanges.
If it works, it could unlock a new blueprint for modern forwards. If it doesn’t, the Crusaders’ play-off hopes take another hit.
Either way, it is a move that underlines the urgency of the moment.
A new stadium, a must-win fixture, and a backline star stepping into the engine room. The Crusaders are chasing victory and a spark to reignite their season.
