Super 14. Day 7. Preview

Friday
Chiefs v Lions

Hamilton, * 5.35pm

Western Force v Queensland Reds
Perth, *9:05pm

Saturday
Crusaders v Bulls
Christchurch, *5.35pm

Crusaders halfback Kevin Senio gets his first start for the year, as does Bulls centre Marius Delport - who is replacing the suspended JP Nel after he tried to smash Rocky Elsom's head off last week. Bulls captain Victor Matfield has been put on the bench by coach Heyneke Meyer, while speedster Bryan Habana and hooker Gary Botha, who both have hamstring problems, must pass fitness tests today to be considered. The Crusaders will be well rested from last week's bye and the players will be keen to fire, knowing that next week their seven All Blacks return from boot camp. With that in mind, the Crusaders will win easily even though the Bulls were excellent last week's demolition of NSW. A bonus point win to the home side. Canterbury second-five Tim Bateman, 19, will be one to watch.

Crusaders: Scott Hamilton, Rico Gear, Casey Laulala, Tim Bateman, Caleb Ralph, Stephen Brett, Kevin Senio, Mose Tuiali'i, Johnny Leo'o, Kieran Read, Ross Filipo, Michael Paterson, Campbell Johnsone, Corey Flynn (capt), Wyatt Crockett. Reserves: Ti'i Paulo, Ben Franks, Isaac Ross, Peter Nixon, Andrew Ellis, Tusi Pisi, Brent Ward.

Bulls: Jaco van der Westhuyzen, Akona Ndungane, Marius Delport, Wayne Julies, Bryan Habana, Derick Hougaard, Fourie du Preez (capt), Pedrie Wannenburg, Wickus van Heerden, Danie Rossouw, Francois van Schouwenburg, Bakkies Botha, Danie Thiart, Gary Botha, Gurthro Steenkamp. Reserves: Derick Kuun, Ruan Vermeulen, Victor Matfield, Anton Leonard, Heinie Adams, Morne Steyn, Frikkie Welsh.
Ref: S Dickinson (Aus)

NSW Waratahs v Stormers
Sydney, *7.40pm

Sunday
Cheetahs v ACT Brumbies
Bloemfontein, *2am

Sharks v Hurricanes
Durban, *4.10am

BYE: Highlanders and Blues.

This story was found at: http://www.rugbyheaven.smh.com.au/articles/2007/03/15/1173722651483.html