In as cover for the injured Ali Williams, Ross impressed with an athletic performance in an otherwise sloppy loss to France in Dunedin.

Despite fears that Ross neglected the grittier aspects of lock play, continuing injury to Williams ensured that he began the Tri-Nations in the All Black second row.

Following the conclusion of the Tri Nations in 2009 Ross was omitted from the All Blacks November tour squad, being told to bulk up in order to reclaim his place.

He played for the Crusaders for the first time in 2007, but in 2008, with Ali Williams joining the franchise for a year to partner Brad Thorn, he went into the draft and was picked up by the Highlanders.

In the 2010 season with the Crusaders the presence of Thorn, the return of Chris Jack from overseas and the rise of the young Sam Whitelock meant he received only five matches in the Super 15 competition.

[citation needed] In 2010, Ross and winner of the 2009 Forestry Modern Apprentice of the Year awards, Warren Ropiha, became the faces of Jigsaw Family Services Extra Ordinary Dads campaign; celebrating fathers and the important role they play in their children's lives.