Coach Todd Blackadder has made seven changes to his starting line-up for the Crusaders' eighth-round Super Rugby match against the Sharks in Durban early on Sunday (AEST).
Beaten 31-19 by the Bulls last weekend, the Crusaders are looking to step up against the current South African conference leaders at Kings Park.
Props Wyatt Crockett and Joe Moody have again rotated, with Crockett starting at loosehead prop this week.
Nepo Laulala will start on the other side of the scrum, while Owen Franks has been named in the reserves.
Matt Todd returns to the openside flank this week, while All Blacks skipper Richie McCaw will provide loose forward cover from the bench.
Dan Carter has returned to New Zealand awaiting the birth of his second child, meaning Colin Slade moves back into five-eighth, Ryan Crotty shifts to inside centre and Kieron Fonotia to centre.
David Havili makes his first start for the Crusaders on the right wing while Tom Taylor and Nafi Tuitavake will make an impact in the back line off the bench.
Crusaders: Israel Dagg, David Havili, Kieron Fonotia, Ryan Crotty, Nemani Nadolo, Colin Slade, Andy Ellis, Kieran Read (captain), Matt Todd, Jordan Taufua, Sam Whitelock, Luke Romano, Nepo Laulala, Ben Funnell, Wyatt Crockett. Reserves: Nafi Tuitavake, Tom Taylor, Mitchell Drummond, Richie McCaw, Jimmy Tupou, Owen Franks, Joe Moody, Codie Taylor.
Share
