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Sam Whitelock auctioning off 150th Crusaders game jersey for rural wellbeing group

July 30, 2020

Proceeds from Whitelock's game-worn jersey against the Chiefs will go towards Farmstrong.

All Black Sam Whitelock is using his upcoming milestone as a chance to support the farming community by auctioning off the jersey for his 150th Crusaders game for a rural wellbeing group.

Whitelock is set to make his 150th Super Rugby appearance this weekend when the Crusaders play the Chiefs in Hamilton, 10 years after debuting for the franchise.

The 149-cap veteran told TVNZ1's Breakfast this morning playing for so long is something he cherishes.

"It's been awesome," he said.

"For myself, a real special was being here with my three brothers. 

"We've been through some pretty challenging times but it's been enjoyable the whole time."

Whitelock is hoping to help others going through challenging times with his landmark jersey though by raising funds for rural wellbeing group, Farmstrong, for which he is an ambassador.

The 31-year-old had his 150th jersey on hand to show Breakfast's audience this morning which included special embroidery under the team logo which signifies the occasion.

"That'll go up after the game and the funds will go to Farmstrong," he said.

Whitelock said the Crusaders will also be adding to the cause.

"The other thing we're going to do is, there's going to be an option to nominate a farming family or a rural family that might be under a bit of pressure and the Crusaders are going to host them next week against the Highlanders [in Christchurch].

"It doesn't matter where you are in the country, the Crusaders will pay for the flights and get you down here with some tickets."

The auction will go up on online website TradeMe and nominations for farming and rural families can be made on the Crusaders' social media channels.

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