'Saders change three for Highlanders
Owen Franks starts at tight head prop while Luke Romano will partner Sam Whitelock in the second row.
At scrumhalf Andy Ellis returns to the starting line up in place of Mitchell Drummond who along with Mike Alaalatoa and Scott Barrett join the bench.
"There is nothing like a classic southern derby to bring out the best in both the Crusaders and the Highlanders," said Blackadder.
"It is always a great game with an amazing atmosphere and with both teams playing well and hungry for the win there is sure to be plenty of passion on the field this Friday."
In a boost for the Crusaders, scrumhalf Leon Fukofuka has re-signed with the team for another two years.
Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Johnny McNicholl, 13 Kieron Fonotia, 12 David Havili, 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 Wyatt Crockett.
Replacements: 16 Ged Robinson, 17 Joe Moody, 18 Mike Alaalatoa, 19 Scott Barrett, 20 Tim Boys, 21 Mitchell Drummond, 22 Ryan Crotty, 23 Marty Mckenzie.
Date: Friday, May 13
Venue: Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
Kick-off: 19.35 (07.35 GMT)
Referee: Chris Pollock
Assistant referees: Jamie Nutbrown, Kane McBride
TMO: Aaron Paterson
