Colin Slade has replaced Daniel Carter at first five for the Crusaders against the Highlanders on Saturday night, while another All Black, Israel Dagg, makes his return to Super Rugby.
Daniel Carter was injured in the Super Rugby season opener against the Rebels Photo: Photosport
Fullback Dagg is one of five changes to the starting line-up this week.
Slade shifts into the first five spot from fullback, with Carter recovering from a leg knock in last week's opening loss to the Melbourne Rebels.
Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has named Wyatt Crockett to start in the No.1 jersey this week, with Joe Moody and Nepo Laulala providing prop cover from the bench.
Ryan Crotty and Tom Taylor have switched places, Crotty taking the starting second five spot this week and Taylor taking a spot on the bench.
Former All Black halfback Andy Ellis won't play this week after returning from his stint in Japanese rugby.
The Crusaders travel to Dunedin on Friday.
Crusaders:
1 Wyatt Crockett
2 Ben Funnell
3 Owen Franks
4 Luke Romano
5 Scott Barrett
6 Richie McCaw
7 Matt Todd (c)
8 Luke Whitelock
9 Mitchell Drummond
10 Colin Slade
11 Johnny McNicholl
12 Ryan Crotty
13 Kieron Fonotia
Reserves:
16 Codie Taylor
17 Joe Moody
18 Nepo Laulala
19 Dominic Bird
20 Jordan Taufua
21 Billy Guyton
22 Tom Taylor
23 Nafi Tuitavake
