-
Robbie Fruean in full flight - Source: Getty Images -
Related
The Crusaders have named their strongest possible line-up for their do-or-die Super Rugby qualifier playoff match in Christchurch this Saturday night.
While influential number eight Kieran Reid is still unavailable with a rib injury, coach Todd Blackadder has promoted three players who were rested from last week's final round win over the Western Force.
Wyatt Crockett will wear the number one jersey and Ben Franks will move to the bench.
Locks Samuel Whitelock and Tom Donnelly also switch positions from last week's game, with Whitelock coming into the starting fifteen at number five and Donnelly taking a place on the bench.
Adam Whitelock moves back to the wing this week, vacating the outside centre position for Robbie Fruean. Sean Maitland will provide cover from the bench.
The winner from this game will progress to the semi-finals, playing either the Chiefs or the Stormers depending on the result from the other qualifier match.
But Blackadder said it is about more than that for Crusaders fans.
"This is obviously our most important match yet this season. But it's not just about the footy this weekend. This is about Crusaders fans getting another opportunity to come together and show that our spirit is still strong after all that has happened to us."
Crusaders: 15-Israel Dagg, 14-Adam Whitelock, 13-Robbie Fruean, 12-Ryan Crotty, 11-Zac Guildford, 10-Dan Carter, 9-Andy Ellis, 8-Richie McCaw (c), 7-Matt Todd, 6-George Whitelock, 5-Sam Whitelock, 4-Luke Romano, 3-Owen Franks, 2-Corey Flynn, 1-Wyatt Crockett.
Reserves: Quentin MacDonald, Ben Franks, Tom Donnelly, Willi Heinz, Tom Taylor, Sean Maitland.