As an investigation gets underway into the South African allegations against Richie Mo'unga and George Bridge, their playing futures are clear for now.
On Tuesday, Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge confirmed that both Bridge and Mo'unga would be available for selection against the Blues this weekend.
Winger Bridge was accused of homophobic slurs against patrons at a Cape Town McDonald's outlet after their draw with the Stormers, while All Blacks first-five Mo'unga has also been implicated in a case of spitting and groping in a bar.
Fines or suspensions could follow, depending on the findings from independent investigator Steph Dyhrberg
Now back in Christchurch, the side's been under intense scrutiny - and not all of it pleasant.
"There are some pretty awful comments made on social media both ways," Mansbridge said.
"I wish people could stop and take a breath before they start posting stuff or saying things."
Coach Scott Robertson believes Bridge has absolutely nothing to hide.
"There's not one thing I can say to George," Robertson told Newshub. "I just looked him in the eye and gave him a cuddle.
"It's tough for him, because he feels like he genuinely hasn't done anything."
Another who shares in those sentiments is former Crusaders assistant coach and now Blues head coach Leon MacDonald.
"They're all good characters," MacDonald said. "I don't think this will disrupt them too much."
Macdonald's Blues travel to Christchurch to face the Crusaders on Saturday night.
There's already plenty at stake, with the Blues' fading playoff hopes on the line, but the off-field drama is sure to ramp up the pressure on the home side.
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