A strong contingent of Nelson players have been selected to attend the Crusader Knight camp this weekend.

The Knights will be the backup players to the Crusaders Super Rugby team, and have a six- match programme of their own during February and March.

Nelson players Reuben Northover, Liam Squire, Tevita Koloamatangi, Shaun Begg, James Lowe, Mike Wells, Kieron Fonotia, Francis Smith and Trael Joass have been selected, as well as Marlborough prop Tim Perry.

Mitchell Drummond will be attending as part of a younger development group, while Steven Soper may be involved to help his recovery from a badly broken leg.

The camp involves training sessions, as well as an introduction to