22 Feb 2012

Owen Franks to sit on bench for Super Rugby opener

7:11 pm on 22 February 2012

The All Blacks tighthead prop Owen Franks will be sitting on the Crusaders bench for the first match of the Super Rugby season against the Blues at Eden Park.

Coach Todd Blackadder has named Ben Franks ahead of his brother for Friday night's clash, with Wyatt Crockett on the other side of the scrum.

The All Blacks fullback Israel Dagg is on the left wing with Tom Marshall at fullback.

The future of New Zealand first fives will be on display with Tyler Bleyendaal picked ahead of Tom Taylor at number 10, in place of the injured Dan Carter, while Gareth Anscombe will be in the Blues mix.

Former Highlander Tom Donnelly will partner All Black lock Sam Whitelock in the second row.

The All Blacks hooker Corey Flynn has also been named in the reserves after recovering from a fractured toe.