By Adam Shergold for MailOnline
Published: 09:32 GMT, 17 March 2019 | Updated: 10:06 GMT, 17 March 2019
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Christchurch-based rugby club The Crusaders are to consider a name change in wake of the mass shooting at two mosques in the city on Friday that left 50 people dead.
The Crusaders adopted their name 23 years ago when rugby went professional but the link has been made between the name and the medieval religious wars between Christians and Muslims since the attacks.
The club, nine times winners of New Zealand's Super Rugby competition, defended their name in a statement issued on Saturday but said a 'conversation would be had.'
Christchurch-based rugby club Crusaders will consider a change of name in wake of shootings
Members of the Christchurch community move flowers closer to one of the mosques as part of a vigil following Friday's deadly attacks
The statement read: 'In light of recent events in Christchurch, we have heard some comments around the Crusaders team name.
'Like all New Zealanders, the Crusaders team and organisation are deeply shocked by this tragedy and our thoughts are with the victims and their families.
'This is bigger than rugby and we're absolutely heartbroken for our wider community, which is where our thoughts are.
'In terms of the Crusaders name, we understand the concerns that have been raised. For us, the Crusaders name is a reflection of the crusading spirit of this community.
'What we stand for is the
