Crusaders fans are making their voices heard over the mooted change of name for the Christchurch Super Rugby side, with a petition to keep the original name nearing 25,000 signatures.
Following the March 15 terrorist attacks that left 50 dead and dozens more injured, after a gunman opened fire on two separate mosques, the Crusaders have found themselves contemplating their identity as a team. The team name is a reference to the Crusades of the Mediterranean that saw Muslims killed by Christians.
There has been pressure for the team to change their name after the Christchurch terrorist attack. (Source: Other)
Started by fan Shane Cannons , the petition is directed towards the New Zealand Government rather than the Crusaders or New Zealand Rugby.
The Crusaders are a "team that thousands of people around the world have loved for so long", Mr Cannons wrote.
"So to change their name because the Government thinks it's a good idea is just unbelievable. Please sign this and share it around.
Sam Whitelock says they need to "give everyone space, especially the families that are affected." (Source: Other)
"Maybe we might just get heard."
The Crusaders have already axed their pre-match entertainment of sword wielding horsemen riding around AMI Stadium, while New Zealand Rugby have said that the side's branding is "no longer tenable".
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