The Crusaders could be without a couple of their key men when they take on the Highlanders this Saturday night.
The Crusaders lost 29‑19 to the Hurricanes in Wellington on Saturday night but were handicapped with the loss of two main men in their side early on.
Midfielder Ryan Crotty left the field after being involved in an ugly head clash early in the match.
He clashed heads with fullback David Havili and lay on the ground for some time before he walked off gingerly.
About the same time, captain and lock Sam Whitelock had his head thrown backwards in attempting to tackle Hurricanes first five‑eighth Beauden Barrett.
He continued playing straight after the incident but was taken off the field after the independent doctor at the game reviewed the clash and decided Whitelock had to be tested for concussion.
He failed the test, as did Crotty.
Neither came back on the field.
Members of the Highlanders and Crusaders will get together today at an All Black foundation day in Christchurch where All Black coach Steve Hansen will set out the plan for the coming year.
In games next week, the Chiefs meet the Bulls at 6.35pm Friday, the Highlanders meet the Crusaders at 6.35pm Saturday while the Brumbies meet the Sharks at 8.45pm Saturday.
The Stormers meet the Blues at 1.05am Sunday, the Lions meet the Sunwolves at 3.15am Sunday, the Reds meet the Jaguares at 9.40am Sunday while the Waratahs meet the Rebels at 5.05pm Sunday.
Source: Otago Times
