Coach Todd Blackadder has made a host of changes to his starting side as the Crusaders return from a Super Rugby bye to host the Southern Kings in Christchurch.
Among the eight changes in personnel are first appearances of the year for fullback Marty McKenzie, halfback Mitchell Drummond, flanker Matt Todd and lock Luke Romano.
McKenzie's inclusion means David Havili moves from fullback to inside centre, forming a midfield partnership with Kieron Fonotia.
There is also a change on the right wing, with Johnny McNicholl promoted from the bench, swapping places with Jone Macilai.
In the forwards, prop Wyatt Crockett and hooker Ben Funnell make it into the run-on 15 for the first time this season, and Jimmy Tupou takes over at No.8 from Kieran Read.
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The Crusaders go into the match on Saturday night with a 1-1 record after a 27-21 defeat to the Chiefs was followed by a 28-13 win over the Blues.
It will be the first of three successive encounters against South African opposition for the Crusaders.
After the Kings, they will face the Sharks in Durban and the Lions in Johannesburg.
Crusaders: Marty McKenzie, Johnny McNicholl, Kieron Fonotia, David Havili, Nemani Nadolo, Richie Mo'unga, Mitchell Drummond, Jimmy Tupou, Matt Todd, Jordan Taufua, Sam Whitelock (capt), Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Ben Funnell, Wyatt Crockett. Res: Ged Robinson, Alex Hodgman, Mike Alaalatoa, Tim Boys, Pete Samu, Leon Fukofuka, Ryan Crotty, Jone Macilai.
