Coach Todd Blackadder has named a new-look Crusaders team to take on the Reds in Brisbane on Saturday.
Among the 28 players named, eight are uncapped at Super Rugby level, while a further five are new to the Crusaders set-up. Jimmy Tupou will also captain the side for the first time in his four years at the Christchurch-based franchise.
The Crusaders have a healthy blend of youth and experience to start the 2016 season, with Cody Taylor, Ben Funnell and Joe Moody waiting on the sidelines to pack down in the front row. Sam Whitelock will also add some strength to the locks.
This is the first of the Crusaders' warm-up matches, and Blackadder will be hoping the wealth of experience combined with the fresh legs will put them on the front foot ahead of the start of Super Rugby.
Crusaders – 15 Marty McKenzie, 14 Jone Macilai, 13 Sean Wainui, 12 David Havili, 11 Sione Fifita, 10 Ben Volavola, 9 Leon Fukofuka, 8 Jordan Taufua, 7 Tim Boys, 6 Jimmy Tupou (c), 5 Scott Barrett, 4, Luke Romano, 3 Mike Alaalatoa, 2 Ged Robinson, 1 Alex Hodgman.
Subs: Codie Taylor, Ben Funnell, Joe Moody, Oliver Jager, Sam Whitelock, Mitchell Dunshea, Reed Prinsep, Mitchell Drummond, Richie Mo’unga, Kieron Fonotia, Mitchell Hunt, Johnny McNicholl, Nemani Nadolo.
Photo: Frikkie Kapp/BackpagePix
