Major boost for Crusaders ahead of Waratahs clash with return of Bell and McNicholl

The Crusaders have received a major boost ahead of their Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific round 14 clash against the Waratahs with the return of hooker George Bell and fullback Johnny McNicholl tonight.

This will cover up for the absence of star players Codie Taylor and Will Jordan, who suffered injuries in the last round over the weekend.

Coach Rob Penny says it is brilliant to have both players back, especially Bell, giving Taylor a break.

Penney says fullback McNicholl will have his first start of the season and has been close to returning over the past month.

He says McNicholl’s return had been delayed because the back three had been working efficiently, and Will Jordan's medial ligament sprain provided the chance to have McNicholl return.

Jordan is not expected to play again before the quarterfinals, and his loss was a blow to the team.

Penny says any team would miss having Jordan out there, and the Crusaders certainly did.

While speaking about the game against the Waratahs, Penny says the Waratahs have struggled in away games but are dangerous at home, and the Crusaders are excited about that challenge.

He says the Waratahs consistently get up when playing the Crusaders, and they love the challenge of playing one of the best teams in the world.

He adds that the Waratahs are a dangerous proposition if the Crusaders are not in the right space.

The Crusaders will take on the Waratahs at 9.35 tonight in Sydney.