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Head to Head: Should Crusaders change their name despite strong opposition?

Author
Newstalk ZB ,
Publish Date
Sun, 21 Apr 2019, 4:43PM

Head to Head: Should Crusaders change their name despite strong opposition?

Author
Newstalk ZB ,
Publish Date
Sun, 21 Apr 2019, 4:43PM

Three quarters of those surveyed by a new poll are against the Crusaders changing their name.

The team's branding has been the subject of debate after the Christchurch mosque attacks as it's associated with the religious Crusades, a 'holy war' launched against Muslims.

The 1 NEWS-Colmar Brunton poll shows 76 percent are against a name change, and just 14 percent are in support.

Otago and Southland residents are most likely to support keeping the name.

But NZ Rugby boss Steve Tew says change is coming, as the imagery of horse-mounted knights along with the Crusaders name is too closely linked to the holy wars.

They're exploring two options: keeping the name but changing their branding and imagery, or ditching the name and starting their brand again from square one.

On whether it is a good idea or not, Tim Roxborogh and Tim Wilson went head to head with callers on what the team should do next. 

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