The Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has made a number of changes to his side for Saturday nights Super Rugby game against the South African side the Kings in Christchurch.
Crusaders lock Luke Romano. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Prop Wyatt Crockett and hooker Ben Funnell will start for the first time this season, having come off the bench in the previous two games.
Playing their first game of the season will be lock Luke Romano, loose forward Matt Todd, halfback Mitchell Drummond and fullback Marty McKenzie.
David Havili will partner Kieron Fonotia in the midfield, while Johnny McNicholl and Nemani Nadolo start on the wings.
Hooker Ged Robinson may earn his first Crusaders cap if he comes off the bench on Saturday night, and Ryan Crotty is also looking for his first run of 2016 after recovering from his thumb injury to take a spot in the reserves.
After this game the Crusaders head to South Africa to take on the Sharks and Lions.
Crusaders team to play the Kings:
1. Wyatt Crockett
2. Ben Funnell
3. Owen Franks
4. Luke Romano
5. Samuel Whitelock (C)
6. Jordan Taufua
7. Matt Todd
8. Jimmy Tupou
9. Mitchell Drummond
10. Richie Mo'unga
11. Nemani Nadolo
12. David Havili
13. Kieron Fonotia
14. Johnny McNicholl
15. Marty McKenzie
Reserves
16. Ged Robinson
17. Alex Hodgman
18. Mike Alaalatoa
19. Tim Boys
20. Pete Samu
21. Leon Fukofuka
22. Ryan Crotty
23. Jone Macilai.
