Todd Blackadder's plan to rejuvenate Dan Carter has resulted in the playmaker losing the Crusaders vice captains job.
The removal of Carter from the deputy's role means the Crusaders will field a revamped leadership for their Super Rugby campaign when it begins against the Blues in Auckland next Friday.
Kieran Read will captain the side in the absence of Richie McCaw, who has been granted leave until early July, while George Whitelock and Ryan Crotty will share the vice captains responsibilities.
Meanwhile this Friday the Highlanders will take on the defending champions Chiefs at 6.35pm and at 8.40 the Rebels meet the Brumbies.
On Saturday the Blues will meet the Hurricanes at 6:35pm and the
Stormers will meet the Bulls at 5:10am while at 8.40pm the Reds play the Waratahs.
Story by: Akuila Cama
Source: Super Rugby