Waratahs stay out of McCaw debate

The Waratahs are steering well clear of the Richie McCaw debate as they prepare to play the Crusaders in Christchurch in a key Super 14 rugby encounter on Friday.

McCaw remains the centre of debate over whether he flouts the breakdown rules, or is just pushing the boundaries.

Waratahs coach Ewen McKenzie is leaving it to the referees, and says that all he can ask is that they patrol the breakdown area, and are consistent in interpreting the laws of the game.

He says, in all honesty, McCaw is one of the best in his trade, with openside flankers practically paid to play on the edge of the law.

The Waratahs will again be without a key player on Friday for the top of the table clash.

Injured first five Mat Rogers has not shown enough progress to make the trip, and is still struggling with that rib injury sustained a couple of weeks ago against the Blues.

McKenzie says Rogers' unavailability is a setback, but they will not be changing their game plan, as they have been without him for a number of games and have obviously done ok.

The Waratahs are top of the points table with 32 after sevens wins from eight games.

The unbeaten Crusaders have 31 points, and have a game in hand on the Waratahs.

- NEWSTALK ZB