Blackadder returns for crucial match against the Blues

The Crusaders have named a formidable team to take on the Blues in round 14 of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition.

Captain Cody Taylor will team up with Joe Moody and Fletcher Newell in the front row, while Antonio Shalfoon will partner with Quinten Strange in the lock.

Ethan Blackadder returns to start at open-side flanker, Cullen Grace at blindside, and Christian Lio-Willie is at number 8.

Noah Hothman partners with Fergus Burke in the halves, while David Havili will team up with Levi Aumua at the centres.

Sevu Reece and Chay Fihaki will start on the wing, and Johnny McNicholl is at fullback.

The Crusaders will need to win with a bonus point against the Blues and hope the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua beat the Highlanders to keep their hopes of making the playoffs alive.

The Crusaders will host the Blues at 7.05 tonight.

Meanwhile, the Waratahs are playing the Moana Pasifika at this hour and are leading Moana Pasifika

In other Super Rugby Pacific matches, the Reds will meet the Force at 9.35 tonight, and the Drua will face the Highlanders at 2.05pm tomorrow.