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13 Feb 2026 20:50

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Some things stay the same for the Crusaders, 30 years on from their first ever match in Super Rugby

Some things stay the same for the Crusaders, 30 years on from their first ever match in Super Rugby

13 February 2026

Angus Gardiner and Todd Blackadder made up two-thirds of the loose forward trio in 1996.

Their sons ... Dom Gardiner and Ethan Blackadder ... will do the same tonight in the season-opener against the Highlanders in Dunedin.

For Dom Gardiner, it's a first Crusaders start since 20-24 ... after injury wrecked his campaign in 2025.

Kickoff's at 5 past 7 ... live commentary on Gold Sport and iHeartRadio.

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Other Rugby News

13 Feb: Chiefs lock Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi says he was proud to receive a matai title during a recent visit to Samoa

13 Feb: All 13 teams are set to start this weekend's SailGP regatta in Auckland, where some tough weather conditions should at least guarantee exciting racing ... assuming it doesn't get too ferocious on the Waitemata

12 Feb: The Blues believe they've unearthed a gem in Torian Barnes ahead of his Super Rugby debut on Saturday

12 Feb: Antonio Shalfoon's determined to take another step up as the Crusaders senior lock - ahead of tomorrow's Super Rugby season opener against the Highlanders in Dunedin

12 Feb: A household name has announced her retirement from international rugby..

12 Feb: Snowboarder Cam Melville Ives has finished eighth in qualifying to advance to the final of the halfpipe at the Milan-Cortina Olympics

12 Feb: Jamie Joseph claims Highlanders Super Rugby headquarters is the place where there is the least chatter about his possible future as All Blacks coach, as he tries to avoid distractions for tomorrow's opener against the Crusaders

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