McCaw, Carter back for derby day
Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder wasted no time in drafting in All Black legends Dan Carter and Richie McCaw for the Super Rugby against the Chiefs, at home on Friday.
Blackadder made five changes to the team that was beaten by the Highlanders last Saturday.
The only change in the backline is at inside centre, where Carter takes Ryan Crotty's spot.
Crotty is recovering from a head knock received in the Highlanders match.
McCaw and Matt Todd have again rotated, with McCaw set to start at No.7 this week.
Wyatt Crockett and Nepo Laulala will be the starting props on Friday, with Joe Moody and Owen Franks as cover.
Luke Romano returns to lock and Jimmy Tupou will take a spot on the bench.
Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 David Havili, 13 Kieron Fonotia, 12 Dan Carter, 11 Nemani Nadolo, 10 Colin Slade, 9 Andy Ellis, 8 Kieran Read (captain), 7 Richie McCaw, 6 Jordan Taufua, 5 Sam Whitelock, 4 Luke Romano, 3 Nepo Laulala, 2 Ben Funnell, 1 Wyatt Crockett.
Replacements: 16 Codie Taylor, 17 Joe Moody, 18 Owen Franks, 19 Jimmy Tupou, 20 Matt Todd, 21 Mitchell Drummond, 22 Tom Taylor, 23 Nafi Tuitavake.
Date: Friday, April 17
Venue: AMI Stadium, Christchurch
Kick-off: 19.35 (07.35 GMT)
Referee: Nick Briant (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: Kane McBride (New Zealand), Brendon Pickerill (New Zealand)
TMO: Ben Skeen (New Zealand)
