The Crusaders will field an unchanged backline against the Blues in Auckland on Saturday as they look to continue an unlikely run towards the Super Rugby play-offs.
Coach Todd Blackadder has made three changes to the forwards, and five in the reserves, to the run-on team who beat the Hurricanes 35-18 last weekend.
Wyatt Crockett returns to the No.1 jersey this week, with Alex Hodgman moving to the bench.
Hookers Ben Funnell and Codie Taylor have rotated again, with Taylor taking the starting spot on Saturday night.
The final change to the starting 15 is at lock, where Dominic Bird comes in alongside Luke Romano. Sam Whitelock and Ryan Crotty both return from head knocks and will make their impact from the bench.
The Crusaders sit eighth on the overall Super Rugby ladder, with their final game of the season against the Brumbies in Canberra next week.
The Blues are 14th.
Crusaders: Tom Taylor, Nafi Tuitavake, Robbie Fruean, David Havili, Nemani Nadolo, Dan Carter, Mitchell Drummond, Jordan Taufua, Richie McCaw (captain), Matt Todd, Dominic Bird, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Codie Taylor, Wyatt Crockett. Reserves: Ben Funnell, Alex Hodgman, Nepo Laulala, Sam Whitelock, Luke Whitelock, Andy Ellis, Ryan Crotty, Kieron Fonotia.
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