Crusaders looking for new fly-half for 2016

Christchurch Super Rugby franchise the Crusaders will have to field a new first-five in Super Rugby this season following the departure of key players.

The Crusaders will be without Dan Carter, Colin Slade and Tom Taylor in Super Rugby this season as all three have left to play abroad.

Head coach Todd Blackadder has to decide who his new playmaker from one of three candidates – Richie Mo’unga, Marty McKenzie and Ben Volavola.

Volavola has been on the fringes of the Waratahs squad for the last two seasons and was the first choice 10 for Fiji at the Rugby World Cup and he is keen to lock in a place in the Crusders starting team.

All three players combined have just eighteen Super Rugby caps between them but Blackadder says the the potential they have gives him confidence.

A bigger headache for Blackadder is his midfield as Ryan Crotty could be out until April due to a thumb injury while Robbie Fruean suffered a pectoral strain in a gym session last month which has ruled him out of the start of the season.

Meanwhile as there is no Richie McCaw and Dan Carter this season Blackadder has to name a new leadership group which he expects to announce next week.