Crusaders suffering from lock nirvana

It appears that Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder is going to have a massive decision on his hands before the clash with the Chiefs, with numerous players set to make their return.

The Crusaders first problem will be in the back row, where the well balanced combination of Richie McCaw at blindside, George Whitelock on the openside and Kieran Read at number eight played well against a powerful and explosive Blues performance at the ruck.

However, Thomas Waldrom is likely to come into consideration this week, meaning that all players could switch.

The “tank engine” will likely return to number eight, with Read switching back to his provincial position at blindside, while All Blacks captain McCaw would probably then move into his favoured role at number seven.

In the front row, Ben Franks is also likely to return, giving Blackadder a big selection decision.

"Thomas and Ben could both be available for selection this week, but we will have to look at the wider picture when we decide on our final lineup," he said to the Press.

He is still undecided if Andy Ellis, who suffered a blow to his head, would start.

"He was a little bit dazed after it happened but it doesn't seem to be too serious. It will just be a case of taking it slowly and going through the right procedures before deciding whether or not he will start this week,” the Crusaders coach said.

"We won't be risking him if there is any concern though, there is still a lot of rugby ahead."

But the real big query will be at lock, where the Crusaders can call upon no less than three All Blacks capped second rowers, as well as the dynamic Sam Whitelock.

Chris Jack, the most experienced of the group, but the least battle hardened, played 70 minutes for the Crusaders Development Unit on the weekend, and came through with nothing serious except a case of sunburn, with his skin probably a bit too used to the English sunshine.

Or lack thereof.

Blackadder was unsure whether or not to usher the veteran into the first team, but said that Jack had been constantly on his case.

"He played very well on Saturday.

"I would probably like him to have another week before he comes back to Super 14 but he was trying to tell me last week he was ready for it without having even played a game, so who knows?"

The trick from here will be how to manage the four big men.

Jack will want game time under his belt if he is to challenge for an All Black berth, and his form at his last club – playing for Western Province in South Africa – was at such a level that it would be no surprise if he again played for the national team.

Thorn will need to be managed, being relied on so heavily by the Crusaders and All Blacks last year, and surely the warhorse could use some extended time on the bench.

Ross, who missed last year’s end of season tour to strengthen up, would love to register some more opportunities at the top level.

And Whitelock looks to be a player for the future.

Certainly the Crusaders will be spoilt for choice and the debate will be rigorous at the selection table in the coming weeks.

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