Anxious times for Crusaders

Chris Jack has a stiff warning for some of his Crusaders teammates as they prepare for the Super 14 match against the Bulls early Saturday morning, New Zealand time.

The side has suffered a draw with the Force and a loss to the Stormers in the last two weeks, surrendering their spot at the top of table.

He says it is time to wake up this weekend.

Jack says the team needs to remember they are there to play rugby, and not enjoy the sights.

All eyes will be on Crusaders coach Robbie Deans' selections in the next 24 hours as the team now has its back against the wall, being in the peculiar position of no longer being assured a playoff spot.

The usually untouchable Deans has copped plenty of criticism for resting his top players over the past two weeks.

Captain Richie McCaw is desperate to start this weekend and says while it has been good having a rest and healing some niggles, it is an important game and they need all hands on deck.

He is a touch disappointed in how the team has played, especially last weekend and they have not done the things they have wanted in terms of their game plan, especially defensively.

McCaw does not feel they have become complacent, although the players have become used to doing just enough to win and they have started to think it is going to happen automatically.

The Crusaders fly up to Pretoria late on Thursday night from sea level Durban to avoid being sapped by the altitude.

They have not beaten the heavyweight Bulls at home since 2001.

- NEWSTALK ZB