Lock Chris Jack will play in his 100th match for the Crusaders after replacing All Black Brad Thorn in the starting 15 for Friday night’s Super Rugby match against the Brumbies at Trafalgar Park in Nelson.
The NZPA reports that Jack, who plays his provincial rugby for Tasman, made his debut for the Crusaders 12 years ago and will start in the No 4 jersey in one of two changes to the team that beat the Waratahs 33-18 in Nelson last Friday.
Another Tasman player, Ben Franks, replaces his brother Owen at tighthead prop. Thorn and Owen Franks are both on the reserves bench.
Jack joins the select group of six players who have played more than 100 games for the Crusaders. Along with Richie McCaw, who hit the milestone last season, that group includes Caleb Ralph, Leon MacDonald, Greg Somerville, Reuben Thorne and Justin Marshall.
He returned to the Crusaders for the 2010 season after stints for Saracens in England and Western Province in South Africa from 2007.
Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder paid tribute to Jack’s achievement in naming his team.
“Chris has been a tireless worker for the Crusaders over the years and thoroughly deserves recognition for achieving this milestone.”
Crusaders: Israel Dagg, Sean Maitland, Robbie Fruean, Sonny Bill Williams, Adam Whitelock, Daniel Carter, Andy Ellis, Kieran Read (captain), Matt Todd, George Whitelock, Sam Whitelock, Chris Jack, Ben Franks, Corey Flynn, Wyatt Crockett.
Reserves: Quentin MacDonald, Owen Franks, Brad Thorn, Jonathan Poff, Willi Heinz, Matt Berquist, Tom Marshall.
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Congrats. Always been a Thorn in the flesh of the opposing teams.
The bench is not that amazing imo, especially not the backline.
Jeez. He’s won more Super trophies than the Bulls. Unbelievable servant to the game.
Brumbies going to get thrashed!
Are all these Whitelocks related???
@BoerSeun (Comment 5) : Yes 3 brothers