George Bridge returns for Crusaders against Highlanders

Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson has confirmed the matchday squad for the sixth round of Super Rugby Aotearoa against Highlanders at Orangetheory Stadium.

George Bridge has return to right wing with Sevu Reece dropping to the bench while Leicester Fainga’anuku has retained his position at left wing. Jack Goodhue and David Havili continue their midfield partnership with Will Jordan at fullback.

While Richie Mo'unga will continue with the kicking responsibility, he will form half back partnership with Mitchell Drummond, who is set to make his 98th appearance for the club as Bryn Hall drops to the bench with Robertson retaining rest of the XV that defeated Blues 43-27 in their previous game.

With four wins from as many games, Crusaders hold the top place in the Super Rugby Aotearoa table while Highlanders are languishing at the bottom after losing three out of their four matches.

Crusaders: 15 Will Jordan, 14 George Bridge, 13 Jack Goodhue, 12 David Havili, 11 Leicester Fainga’anuku, 10 Richie Mo’unga, 9 Mitchell Drummond, 8 Cullen Grace, 7 Sione Havili, 6 Ethan Blackadder, 5 Samuel Whitelock, 4 Scott Barrett, 3 Michael Alaalatoa, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Joe Moody

Reserves: 16 Brodie McAlister, 17 George Bower, 18 Oliver Jager, 19 Mitchell Dunshea, 20 Whetu Douglas, 21 Bryn Hall, 22 Fergus Burke, 23 Sevu Reece

Highlanders: 15 Connor Garden-Bachop, 14 Scott Gregory, 13 Michael Collins, 12 Thomas Umaga-Jensen, 11 Jona Nareki, 10 Mitch Hunt, 9 Folau Fakatava, 8 Kazuki Himeno, 7 Billy Harmon, 6 Shannon Frizell, 5 Paripari Parkinson, 4 Bryn Evans, 3 Siate Tokolahi, 2 Ash Dixon, 1 Ethan De Groot

Reserves: 16 Liam Coltman, 17 Ayden Johnstone, 18 Josh Hohneck, 19 Josh Dickson, 20 Hugh Renton, 21 Aaron Smith, 22 Caleb Makene, 23 James Lentjes