VIDEO: Crusaders were always preparing for Sharks

SUPER RUGBY SPOTLIGHT: The Crusaders have been preparing to face the Sharks even before this year's Super Rugby's quarterfinalists were finalised.

The Sharks secured their spot in the play-offs with a 20-10 win over the Jaguares in Durban after the Highlanders did them a huge favour earlier on Staurday by beating the Melbourne Rebels in Dunedin.

After an inconsistent season, not many will be giving the Sharks a chance in Christchurch. However, the Crusaders are not taking their opponents lightly.

"They [Sharks] have a big physical pack we have done a lot of previewing on them yesterday [Sunday] and a little bit last week as well,” said Crusaders assistant coach Jason Ryan.

"We had a fair idea we might have them. They have a big strong pack like any South African team and they are going to bring a lot."

Ryan added: "They are really physical, they are a good offloading team and they got athletes across the park.

"They are going to come over here with nothing to lose and it’s the same for us. This is finals week and it’s not a quarterfinal, it’s a final."

The Crusaders have used their squad well this season after a number of injuries to key players and Ryan admits they have some big decisions to make ahead of their team announcement.

"Everyone who played pretty much took their opportunities, so it [selections] is going to be interesting.

"We got some big calls to make, we trust everyone to do their job. Jack [Goodhue] was on fire [against the Blues] and so was Bridgy [George Bridge]. He scored some nice tries and he has been playing some nice rugby all year," said Ryan.

By WarrenFortune

@FortuneWarren

@rugby365com