Crusaders coach Scott Robertson has named a team with seven changes to play the Rebels in Melbourne on Friday.
The Crusaders beat the Brumbies in Canberra last weekend and they remained in Australia for this weekend’s match.
The match day 23 includes three players – Richie Mo’unga, Jack Goodhue and Mitchell Dunshea – who will make their return from injury.
In the front row, Wyatt Crockett comes into the starting team for what will be his 195th Super Rugby appearance.
At hooker Andrew Makalio takes the starting spot and Melbourne‑born Pete Samu earns a start at blindside flanker.
In the backline, Mitchell Drummond will wear the No. 9 jersey, while Richie Mo’unga returns at first five‑eighth having recovered from the fractured jaw he suffered back in round three.
A reshuffle in the outside backs sees Seta Tamanivalu move to the right‑wing with George Bridge on the left‑wing.
Jack Goodhue is also set to make his return from injury, and will slot in at centre.
The Crusaders meet the Rebels at 9.45pm Friday.
Crusaders
1. Wyatt Crockett , 2. Andrew Makalio , 3. Owen Franks , 4. Scott Barrett , 5. Sam Whitelock (C) , 6. Pete Samu , 7. Matt Todd (VC) , 8. Jordan Taufua , 9. Mitchell Drummond , 10. Richie Mo’unga , 11. George Bridge , 12. Ryan Crotty (VC) , 13. Jack Goodhue , 14. Seta Tamanivalu , 15. David Havili
Replacements : 16. Codie Taylor , 17. Harry Allan , 18. Michael Alaalatoa , 19. Mitchell Dunshea , 20. Heiden Bedwell‑Curtis , 21. Bryn Hall , 22. Mitchell Hunt , 23. Manasa Mataele
[Source : Superxv.com]
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