The Crusaders have named their side to face the Chiefs tonight in a blockbuster Super Rugby Pacific semi-final, with a place in the final on the line.

In a timely boost, tighthead prop Fletcher Newell returns from injury and will start in the front row alongside Codie Taylor and Finlay Brewis.

Newell has recovered from a minor MCL issue and said he is confident his body is ready for one of the biggest matches of the season.

“I’m feeling really good, really confident in how the last week’s gone around my knee, and really excited to get back in the team. It’s going to be an awesome fixture this week,” Newell said.

“I just had a full week of training and did everything I could to give myself the best opportunity to be out there. I’m really excited to get on the field.”

Head Coach Rob Penney said Newell’s return comes at an important point in the campaign, as the Crusaders enter the sharpest end of the competition.

“Fletch has played phenomenally for us, and we’re blessed to have him back this week,” Penney said.

“You need all your top weaponry available at this time of year, and his experience is going to be very valuable.”

With the Chiefs and Crusaders producing tight contests throughout the season, Penney said the group understands just how ruthless finals rugby can be.

“There’s no guarantees. All we can control is how we prepare, and the group’s in a great mindset,” Penney said.

“At this stage of the competition, all the teams are very even and very capable of inflicting wounds on each other. It’s very brutal from here.”

Crusaders to face the Chiefs:

Finlay Brewis
Codie Taylor (VC)
Fletcher Newell
Antonio Shalfoon
Jamie Hannah
Ethan Blackadder
Leicester Fainga’anuku
Christian Lio‑Willie
Noah Hotham
Taha Kemara
Sevu Reece
David Havili (C)
Braydon Ennor
Chay Fihaki
Johnny McNicholl

Reserves: 16. Manumaua Letiu 17. Jack Sexton 18. George Bower 19. Tahlor Cahill 20. Dom Gardiner 21. Kyle Preston 22. Rivez Reihana 23. Macca Springer