The Crusaders may not know when they will eventually have a home ground, but at least they know when one of their super stars will return to action.
Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder told the media that All Black flyhalf Dan Carter is scheduled for a return to action in March, following his much-publicised groin injury at the World Cup last year.
Carter and his fellow All Blacks, including captain Richie McCaw, returned to training with the Crusaders this week.
The flyhalf, who missed the majority of the global showpiece after suffering the groin adductor injury, is rehabilitating well from surgery.
He and McCaw, who is also recovering from surgery on his right foot, are not taking part in pre-season training.
However, Blackadder said prospects for Carter were positive.
"He is going to be back in March, hopefully for our first or second home game," the coach said.
"He is still in rehab mode but he's looking in good shape."
He wasn't able to pinpoint a date for McCaw's comeback, but wasn't expecting an early return from his skipper anyway because of a rest clause in his contract.
However, the news is not as positive on the completion of their new home ground.
The Crusaders had hoped to have their new stadium - Rugby League Park in the Christchurch suburb of Addington - completed for their first home game of the season, the Round Three match against the Chiefs on March 9.
But progress on the revamping of the stadium has been slow.
Hamish Riach, CEO of the Crusaders, said that contractors were working incredibly hard to convert the grounds to a first class sports and outdoor entertainment centre.
“This has been an ambitious programme from the start and we are delighted that we are getting closer to having home games in Christchurch.”
The franchise conceded before Christmas that the venue wouldn't be ready in time and have switched their attention to their second home game on March 24 against the Cheetahs.
It's understood the two venues in the running to host the Crusaders' first "home" game are McLean Park in Napier or Trafalgar Park in Nelson.
A decision will be made later this month.
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