Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has made seven changes to the starting line-up which last week lost 32-22 to the Waratahs for Friday's Super Rugby clash with the table-topping Hurricanes in Nelson.
Three players have been ruled out following head knocks - lock Sam Whitelock, No.8 Kieran Read and midfielder Ryan Crotty.
Jimmy Tupou will start at lock alongside Luke Romano, while Dominic Bird takes a spot on the bench.
Richie McCaw will take over captaincy duties and the No.7 jersey, with Matt Todd playing at six, Jordan Taufua at No.8 and Luke Whitelock on the bench.
Prop Alex Hodgman will make his first start of the season for Joe Moody, out with a foot injury, while Nepo Laulala and Tim Perry, set to play his first game since rupturing his Achilles late last year, provide cover from the bench.
Robbie Fruean is making his return from injury at centre and David Havili will start at second five-eighth.
Colin Slade and Israel Dagg are also both out with injuries this week, so Dan Carter starts in the No.10 jersey and Tom Taylor at fullback.
Crusaders: Tom Taylor, Nafi Tuitavake, Robbie Fruean, David Havili, Nemani Nadolo, Dan Carter, Mitchell Drummond, Jordan Taufua, Richie McCaw (captain), Matt Todd, Jimmy Tupou, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Ben Funnell, Alex Hodgman. Reserves: Codie Taylor, Tim Perry, Nepo Laulala, Dominic Bird, Luke Whitelock, Andy Ellis, Kieron Fonotia, Jone Macilai.
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