Crotty doubtful for Chiefs clash

The 27-year-old injured his calf in New Zealand's 46-6 third Test win over Wales in Dunedin and will probably not travel with the rest of his Crusaders teammates to Suva.

Crusaders head coach Todd Blackadder said they have become accustomed with their battles with injuries.

"We are used to that in this competition," Blackadder told stuff.co.nz. "That's why David Havili and Kieron Fonotia have had so much time there [in the Crusaders midfield].

"I think, if anything, we won't lose a lot."

Meanwhile, captain Kieran Read suffered a shoulder "stinger" in the second half at Dunedin, but completed the game after treatment. 

Blackadder said Read is fit for Friday's clash. 

"He's fine. That man is just a machine this year," Blackadder said.

Blackadder said that the nine returning All Blacks in his squad are all raring to be part of Super Rugby again after being involved in the three-Test series against Wales.

"It's a testament to the team and the culture and their belief in the team this year that everyone's come in and done a few little things, but nothing over the top," Blackadder said.

"The energy's there. If anything, it's just getting the clarity, getting the guys getting used to the calls again so they can go out there on Friday and rip into it."

Blackadder said he was looking forward to re-starting the season after the four-week break.

"I've never enjoyed it. Bring on the global season.

"I think everyone's sick of saying it. I haven't heard anyone say it's not the right thing to do.

"Everyone got the same issues, everyone's got to get on with it. It's not worth the whinge, to be honest."

This year's Super Rugby campaign is the last for Blackadder and the 44-year-old revealed that he did not use the four-week break to go in search of another job.

"I'm really loving this team. It's been fantastic. This year it feels like we've got a really special group of men and I just want to enjoy every moment.

"Everyone has really bonded and connected. Everyone is just hungry for the opportunity.

"If anything, I think the underdog status really sits well with us. Maybe we are a little bit under-estimated, but I'm quite happy about that.

"We don't talk it up, we just go quietly about our work."

Source: stuff.co.nz