Top of the pops: Crusaders' most wanted

Leon MacDonald: Has reinforced his pedigree after a year's sabbatical in Japan. Was a teenage debutante with the Crusaders, had a year away with the Chiefs, and has been a superb fullback for the Crusaders. Is pushing hard for All Black re-selection.

Norm Berryman: Stormin' Norman could make things happen. He was versatile enough to play at centre, wing or fullback in more than 40 games. Close call with Afato So'oalo, whose try won the 1999 final, and Rico Gear who has had a great season.

Daryl Gibson: Resourceful and adaptable, he could shine anywhere in the backline except halfback and first five-eighths.

Picked here as centre, where he beat fellow All Blacks Mark Robinson and Tabai Matson.

Daniel Carter: Three brilliant seasons and could not be left out. Sharp in attack, strong in defence and so deadly, he has taken over as the side's goalkicker. His inclusion in midfield leaves no place for Aaron Mauger and Mark Mayerhofler.

Caleb Ralph: After bit-part stints with the Chiefs and Blues, has surged past 50 tries in Crusader colours. Workrate, defence and dependability are his hallmarks. Began career in his preferred position of centre and filled in there lately but has mostly been the automatic choice for the left wing.

Andrew Mehrtens: Influential through most of his career where he guided the side to their four titles. Pinpoint kicking, wide sweeping passes and surprising speed are all hallmark of his game. Has returned to the top-level after sliding out of favour in 2003.

Justin Marshall: No competition here for the centurion halfback, who is firing up for his final game in Crusader colours. His style suits the side and his abrasive, combative leadership has dragged the team through many crises.

Scott Robertson: Got the best out of his game at the start of this decade before he quit for rugby in France. Smooth distributor, athletic attacker whose defence became a strength. Ahead of others like Sam Broomhall, Mose Tuiali'i and Ron Cribb.

Richie McCaw: No contest with this flanker, who may be the best New Zealand has ever had. Made the All Blacks before playing Super 12 and just keeps producing stellar performances. Only concerns are the concussions which felled him this year and last.

Todd Blackadder (capt): Had to be in for his captaincy alone. The worker, the grafter, the rock on which the Crusaders built the franchise. Started as flanker before shifting to lock and excelling. No room at lock so Blackadder nudges out Reuben Thorne.

Norm Maxwell: Could not quite make it to the end of the competition, his body calling it quits after too many battles with injury. A foundation lock, Maxwell was often the lineout target who coaxed a variety of teammates until the arrival of Chris Jack.

Chris Jack: Took a while for this huge man to dominate consistently. Great at kickoffs and lineouts, he also shows incredible speed and ball-handling outside his setpiece work.

Greg Somerville: Another player headhunted from Hawkes Bay. A specialist tighthead prop who in recent seasons has also been able to handle the other side of the scrum. Very mobile, a good support player and nearing 50 test caps.

Mark Hammett: 'Hammer" packed it in after neck and shoulder problems would not respond. But in his time as hooker he challenged the best like Sean Fitzpatrick and Anton Oliver, with his heady play, accurate lineout throwing and great temperament.

Dave Hewett: Another about to leave, Hewett did not make his debut until he was 26. He has improved every season, played 22 tests for the All Blacks and been able to specialise either side of the scrum. Edges out the more explosive scrummager Greg Feek.