25 May 2019

Richie Mo'unga and George Bridge to play for Crusaders this weekend

10:01 pm on 25 May 2019

First five Richie Mo'unga and wing George Bridge will start for the Crusaders in Saturday's Super Rugby match against the Blues despite facing allegations of impropriety.

Crusaders first five Richie Mo'unga and winger George Bridge.

Crusaders first five Richie Mo'unga and winger George Bridge. Photo: Photosport

A group of players, including Bridge, are accused of making homophobic remarks to a group of men in a Cape Town restaurant.

All Blacks first five Richie Mo'unga is said to have spat beer on a woman and touched her inappropriately.

The alleged incidents - which have been denied by the players - occurred on the team's recent tour of South Africa.

The coach Scott Robertson has named both players to start against the Blues for Saturday's game and says the players are looking forward to their side of the story coming out.

The matters are being investigated by Wellington lawyer Steph Dyhrberg.

Crusaders XV to play the Blues:

1. Joe Moody

2. Andrew Makalio

3. Michael Alaalatoa

4. Scott Barrett

5. Sam Whitelock (c)

6. Jordan Taufua

7. Matt Todd (vc)

8. Whetukamokamo Douglas

9. Bryn Hall

10. Richie Mo'unga

11. George Bridge

12. Ryan Crotty (vc)

13. Jack Goodhue

14. Sevu Reece

15. David Havili

Reserves:

16. Brodie McAlister

17. Isi Tu'ungafasi

18. George Bower

19. Luke Romano

20. Ethan Blackadder

21. Mitchell Drummond

22. Mitchell Hunt

23. Braydon Ennor