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, there has been pressure for the team to change their name.

Started by fan Shane Cannons, the petition is directed towards the New Zealand Government rather than the Crusaders or New Zealand Rugby.

The Crusaders have already axed their pre‑match entertainment of sword-wielding horsemen riding around AMI Stadium, while New Zealand Rugby has said that the side's branding is "no longer tenable".

Meanwhile, the Crusaders meet the Highlanders at 7.35pm Friday while the Rebels meet the Stormers at 9.45pm.

[Source: TVNZ]

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