The Crusaders centre Casey Laulala has been ruled out of Saturday night's Super 14 rugby match against the Highlanders at Carisbrook due to a shoulder injury.
Laulala, who has scored four tries in the first three rounds of the competition, injured his right shoulder in the match against the Hurricanes last weekend... he'll be replaced by Adam Whitelock.
Fullback Leon MacDonald has also failed a fitness test on his shoulder which he injured in the first-round victory over the Chiefs. Stephen Brett, who has worn the number 15 jersey against the Brumbies and the Hurricanes, will again wear it against the Highlanders.
Prop Ben Franks, who has a foot injury, has been bracketed with Bronson Murray and halfback Andy Ellis, who has a sprained ankle, has been bracketed with Kahn Fotuali'i.
Tasman wing Blair Cook will earn his first Crusaders cap replacing Kade Poki, who sprained an ankle against the Hurricanes last weekend.
Hamish Gard comes on to the bench as cover for the backs.
