3 Jul 2014

All Black quartet return for Crusaders

12:31 pm on 3 July 2014

The Crusaders have rushed All Blacks Dan Carter, Kieran Read, Owen Franks and Israel Dagg back into the starting XV for Saturday's crucial Super Rugby match against the Blues in Christchurch.

The quartet's return is a major boost for the New Zealand conference leaders as they look to cement their place in the playoffs.

All Blacks Dan Carter, Aaron Cruden and Kieran Read perform the Haka.

All Blacks Dan Carter, Aaron Cruden and Kieran Read perform the Haka. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Colin Slade retains his place at first-five with Carter outside him in the No.12 jersey, pushing Ryan Cotty out one spot to centre.

Carter will square off against the Blues and All Black second five Ma'a Nonu in a mouth-watering midfield match up.

Read starts at No.8 and captains the side, meaning Luke Whitelock drops to the bench.

Franks starts at prop after coming off the bench last against the Hurricanes.

Fijian flyer Nemani Nadolo has returned from international duties to take the left wing spot, while last week's centre Kieron Fonotia will start on the right wing.

Dagg has recovered from injury to take the fullback's jersey.

Crusaders:

1. Wyatt Crockett

2. Ben Funnell

3. Owen Franks

4. Dominic Bird

5. Samuel Whitelock

6. Jordan Taufua

7. Matt Todd

8. Kieran Read (captain)

9. Andy Ellis

10. Colin Slade

11. Nemani Nadolo

12. Dan Carter

13. Ryan Crotty

14. Kieron Fonotia

15. Israel Dagg

Reserves:

16. Corey Flynn

17. Joe Moody

18. Nepo Laulala

19. Jimmy Tupou

20. Luke Whitelock

21. Willi Heinz

22. Tom Taylor

23. Johnny McNicholl