Crusaders invite 38 fans to unveil 2027 squad in Auckland

The Crusaders moved to engage supporters directly in the team building process by inviting 38 fans to the pitch at One New Zealand Stadium. The group joined players and staff on Wednesday afternoon to announce the roster for the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific season. The event placed community members at the center of the official unveiling.

The selection process began with a public call for nominations. The franchise sought fans who had inspiring stories and strong ties to the club. Two children, Ava Lyall and Zara Lamperd, were chosen to step on stage and name a player. Their participation followed a review of submissions from the public.

Ava Lyall, 9, was nominated by her mother, Tracey Lyall. Tracey described Ava as a young girl who faced bone cancer, chemotherapy, long hospital stays, and the amputation of a leg. Despite these challenges, Ava took up wheelchair basketball. She recently competed in the Halberg Games and was named the Most Valuable Player for her team.

Zara Lamperd’s connection to the team stems from an incident at age 6. Her father, James Lamperd, recalled that she ran onto Apollo Projects Stadium for a curtain-raiser game. A collision left her battered and missing two front teeth. The Crusaders support crew provided immediate care, turning a frightening moment into a positive memory for the child.

Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge said the event was about getting people excited. He noted that fans love the team and want to be involved. He added that the passion people have for the club is great. The squad announcement serves to reinforce those local bonds.

The 2027 squad includes props Tamaiti Williams, Finlay Brewis, George Bower, Fletcher Newell, Seb Calder, Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou, and Clément Castets. Hookers Codie Taylor, Manumaua Letiu, and George Bell round out the front row. Locks are Liam Jack, Tahlor Cahill, Jamie Hannah, and Scott Barrett. Loose forwards include Xavier Saifoloi, Ethan Blackadder, Dominic Gardiner, Xavier Treacy, Christian Lio-Willie, Finn McLeod, Oli Mathis, and Johnny Lee.

Halfbacks Kyle Preston, Noah Hotham, and Mitchell Drummond join first fives Rivez Reihana, James White, and Richie Mo’unga. Midfielders are Jake Te Hiwi, Corey Evans, Toby Bell, Cooper Roberts, and Leicester Fainga’anuku. Outside backs include Johnny McNicholl, Kurtis MacDonald, Macca Springer, Maloni Kunawave, Chay Fihaki, and Will Jordan. Clément Castets serves as a replacement for Tamaiti Williams until he is selectable. Asterisks indicate players signing their first full Crusaders contract.