Record swansong for Ellis
The 32-year-old will be just the third Crusader to reach this milestone, joining Corey Flynn and Wyatt Crockett.
Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has made just two changes to the team – rotations at both prop and inside centre, with Joe Moody and Ryan Crotty taking the starting spots and Wyatt Crockett and David Havili moving to the bench.
Blackadder said it would be a special occasion for Ellis, but also for the whole team who will be determined to make it a night to remember for their teammate.
“Andy is such a popular member of this team and we all want this to be a memorable night for him, for all the right reasons," said Blackadder.
"It's a significant milestone that only a few players can lay claim to, and Andy deserves all the credit he gets this week.
“It is particularly special for Andy to mark this milestone in front of a home crowd.
"This is the last home game we’ll play until July, so it would be great to get a strong turnout on Friday to cheer the team on."
Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Johnny McNicholl, 13 Kieron Fonotia, 12 Ryan Crotty, 11 Jone Macilai, 10 Richie Mo’unga, 9 Andy Ellis, 8 Kieran Read (captain), 7 Matt Todd, 6 Jordan Taufua, 5 Sam Whitelock, 4 Luke Romano, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Joe Moody.
Replacements: 16 Ged Robinson, 17 Wyatt Crockett, 18 Mike Alaalatoa, 19 Scott Barrett, 20 Tim Boys, 21 Mitchell Drummond, 22 David Havili, 23 Marty McKenzie.
Date: Friday, May 20
Venue: AMI Stadium, Christchurch
Kick-off: 19.35 (17.35 AEST, 07.35 GMT)
Referee: Jaco Peyper
Assistant referees: Jaco van Heerden, Kane McBride
TMO: Chris Wratt
