Crusaders scrumhalf Andy Ellis and wing Nemani Nadolo have been ruled out of Saturday's Super Rugby quarter-final against the Lions at Ellis Park.

Ellis strained a calf during the warm-up session before their match against the Hurricanes in Christchurch, while Nadolo strained a hamstring during the 35-10 defeat.

The Crusaders' preparations have also been hampered by the fact that they won't be able to leave for South Africa until Tuesday due to a lack of flights.

There was some good news for coach Todd Blackadder, though. Lock Sam Whitelock, who was a late withdrawal from the team to face the Canes because of illness, will travel with the team.

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