17 Mar 2016

Plenty of changes to Crusaders lineup

4:51 pm on 17 March 2016

The Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has made a number of changes to his side for Saturday nights Super Rugby game against the South African side the Kings in Christchurch.

Crusaders lock Luke Romano.

Crusaders lock Luke Romano. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Prop Wyatt Crockett and hooker Ben Funnell will start for the first time this season, having come off the bench in the previous two games.

Playing their first game of the season will be lock Luke Romano, loose forward Matt Todd, halfback Mitchell Drummond and fullback Marty McKenzie.

David Havili will partner Kieron Fonotia in the midfield, while Johnny McNicholl and Nemani Nadolo start on the wings.

Hooker Ged Robinson may earn his first Crusaders cap if he comes off the bench on Saturday night, and Ryan Crotty is also looking for his first run of 2016 after recovering from his thumb injury to take a spot in the reserves.

After this game the Crusaders head to South Africa to take on the Sharks and Lions.

Crusaders team to play the Kings:

1. Wyatt Crockett

2. Ben Funnell

3. Owen Franks

4. Luke Romano

5. Samuel Whitelock (C)

6. Jordan Taufua

7. Matt Todd

8. Jimmy Tupou

9. Mitchell Drummond

10. Richie Mo'unga

11. Nemani Nadolo

12. David Havili

13. Kieron Fonotia

14. Johnny McNicholl

15. Marty McKenzie

Reserves

16. Ged Robinson

17. Alex Hodgman

18. Mike Alaalatoa

19. Tim Boys

20. Pete Samu

21. Leon Fukofuka

22. Ryan Crotty

23. Jone Macilai.