KEY POINTS:
There are five changes to the Crusaders side who face the Queensland Reds in their Super 14 rugby match in Brisbane on Saturday.
Half of the pack who started in last weekend's 18-10 defeat of the Sharks has been overhauled while halfback Kahn Fotuali'i starts ahead of Andy Ellis.
Up front, coach Robbie Deans has brought in No 8 Mose Tuiali'i for Nasi Manu, lock Ross Filipo for Ali Williams, hooker Ti'i Paulo for Corey Flynn and prop Wyatt Crockett for Ben Franks.
"The changes are about keeping everyone fresh but they are also rewarding some players who have been making a big contribution towards the team's welfare and performance ," Deans said.
All Blacks first-five-eighth Daniel Carter makes his return on the reserve bench, having recovered from the ankle sprain he sustained against the Hurricanes on March 28.
Deans said Carter wouldn't yet be back at full fitness.
"Physically he's ready to return but, by bringing him back via the bench, we'll ease him back in slowly," Deans said.
Crusaders
Leon MacDonald, Kade Poki, Casey Laulala, Tim Bateman, Sean Maitland, Stephen Brett, Kahn Fotuali'i, Mose Tuiali'i, Richard McCaw (captain), Kieran Read, Ross Filipo, Brad Thorn, Greg Somerville, Ti'i Paulo, Wyatt Crockett.
Reserves: Corey Flynn, Ben Franks, Ali Williams, George Whitelock, Andrew Ellis, Daniel Carter, Caleb Ralph
- NZPA
