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James O'Connor ruled out of Crusaders clash as Reds make three changes to starting side
By Online Editors
Wallabies star James O'Connor has been ruled out of the Queensland Reds side to face the Crusaders in Christchurch on Friday.
The 29-year-old utility back was forced from the field with an ankle injury during the Reds' 33-23 defeat to the Sharks in Brisbane last week.
That injury has prevented O'Connor from making his sixth consecutive start for Queensland this season, paving the way for promising youngster Isaac Lucas to take the reins at No. 10 at Orangetheory Stadium.
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Lucas' promotion to the starting side is one of three alterations head coach Brad Thorn has made to his team as they look to pick up their second win of the campaign.
In-form halfback Tate McDermott has been demoted to the bench in place of one-test Samoan international Scott Malolua, who will partner with Lucas in a new-look halves combination.
" Thorn, a two-time Super Rugby-winning former Crusader himself, said in a statement on Wednesday.
“The Crusaders are a tough opposition – especially at home. We respect what they’ve done over the years. There’s no better test than playing the best. We’re up for the contest on Friday night.”
Queensland Reds side to face the Crusaders
1 - JP Smith
2 - Alex Mafi
3 - Taniela Tupou
4 - Lukhan Salakaia-Loto
5 - Harry Hockings
6 - Angus Scott-Young
7 - Liam Wright (c)
8 - Harry Wilson
9 - Scott Malolua
10 - Isaac Lucas
11 - Henry Speight
12 - Hamish Stewart
13 - Hunter Paisami
14 - Chris Feauai-Sautia
15 - Jock Campbell
Reserves
16 - Ed Craig
17 - Dane Zander
18 - Josh Nasser
19 - Angus Blyth
20 - Fraser McReight
21 - Tate McDermott
22 - Bryce Hegarty
23 - Filipo Daugunu
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Latest Comments
Kok will become a fan favourite
Go to commentsI am really looking forward to Leigh Halfpenny playing his first Super rugby game for the Crusaders Playing a long side his former Welsh and Scarlets team mate Johnny McNicoll.Johnny has been playing great, back in a Crusaders jersey.The attack has strengthened big time. Also looking forward to David Havili at 10. David is a class act, it also allows Dallas McLeod to remain at 12. A good thing.
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