Inga Tuigamala: Hard to predict quake's impact on Crusaders

Richie McCaw, captain of the Crusaders. Photo / Getty Images

Opinion

All eyes will be on Nelson where the Crusaders take on the Waratahs in extraordinary circumstances tonight.

Whether the tragic events in Christchurch give the Crusaders a charge or leave them drained is hard to predict. The earthquake and the horrible aftermath will have an effect one way or another, no matter how hard the Crusaders try to resume their normal efficient service.

I think it is wonderfully appropriate that their first match since that terrifying day is against the Waratahs.

I would like to express my admiration here for the support Australia has given Christchurch and New Zealand during these hard times. We are rivals in many ways, especially in sport, yet we have also linked arms in battle over the years.

Australia has not shirked in coming to our aid. In last week's column, I said it was important for all New Zealanders to put any differences aside in the recovery and rebuilding work, and Australia has also done so. Their Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, spoke so well.

I don't necessarily think the Crusaders will be able to ride what will be a huge wave of emotion to victory. The Waratahs have started the season strongly against their Australian opponents.

It was interesting to hear Sonny Bill Williams saying the players want to give back to the people of Canterbury, to put a smile on their faces. He said the players were professional entertainers, and one of their jobs was to put joy into people's lives. Win or lose, I'm sure they will do that, and I do hope they win.

The Blues have made six changes, and I'm not concerned about that. They will still have a lot of experience in the tight five and backline when they take on the Lions.

Rotation is part of the deal in touring South Africa. I will admit to some surprise that a player like Rene Ranger is on the bench. His game appears so suited to the hard grounds.

Luke McAlister starts in the No10 jersey, but I would lean towards Stephen Brett as the No1 first five-eighths.

Both have their strengths and weaknesses, but Brett strikes me as being the steadier of the two, although his kicking, both tactical and for goal, can be a problem.

Finally, praise for Jamie Joseph, the new Highlanders coach and an old All Black teammate of mine.

I played with Jamie in teenage representative sides and we used to call him the Big Indian Chief back then - he had the mullet haircut with black tape around it. He always played a tough, hard game and his Highlanders are doing the same, especially with their ground combat.

They are offloading the ball, which is giving them a continuity not previously seen in their game. The Highlanders are emerging as the exciting new factor in Super Rugby this year.