Crusaders to host Super Rugby match in Nelson - Super Rugby News
The nomadic Crusaders are expected to host a Super Rugby match in Nelson if they succeed in the play-offs. The Crusaders were left homeless by the devastating earthquake that hit Christchurch on 22nd February, early this year. They are currently
in third place on the point’s table and are confident to make their place in the home qualifier match.
The Crusaders, who snatched New Zealand’s top spot from the Blues last week, are left with a single match ahead of the play-off stages. They will take on the Highlanders in their last round match of Super Rugby competition, on June 18 and victory will firm
their position to qualify for the semi-finals.
They had a real set back at the start of th eSuper Rugby season as they give up all their home matches to be played at AMI stadium in Christchurch. The AMI stadium was shaken by the terrible tremor, which turned the venue into a cracked structure, causing
huge damage to its playing surface and mighty roof that was built to add splendour to its beauty.
The venue was planned to host five matches of Super Rugby for the Crusaders but International Rugby Board declared the stadium unfit to host any match until it was reconstructed. They have been offered to host their home-qualifier match or the semi-final,
if they finish well on the point tables, in Nelson or Westpac Stadium in Wellington.
Talking to the media, Crusaders Chief Executive Officer Hamish Riach, said that they will definitely prefer to stay near Christchurch. He added, "We want to stay as close to friends, family and regional fans as possible and playing at Trafalgar Park is a
good fit for us. We are also hopeful that fans from Christchurch will want to support the team by travelling within the South Island, and enjoy the match, hospitality and other attractions of the northern part of the Crusaders region."
Their coach, Todd Blackadder, also backed up Hamish’s suggestion and said, "We have received outstanding support from the Nelson region leading up to and during our three games at Trafalgar Park this season and we hope we're in a position to head back there."
The home qualifier would be played on June 24 and 25 whereas the semi finals will begin on July 1st.
Tags: