Captain Richie McCaw will start at blindside flanker for the Crusaders in Friday's last-round Super 14 rugby match against the Brumbies at Jade Stadium, Christchurch.
He comes into the team after a two-week break, with Johnny Leo'o named at openside flanker, where McCaw normally plays.
Winger Rico Gear has been spelled for the first time this season and Ross Filipo returns from injury to make the 22.
Reuben Thorne has been retained at lock after starting there against the Bulls last week while hooker Tone Kopelani gets his second start of the season.
Crusaders:
Leon MacDonald, Scott Hamilton, Casey Laulala, Aaron Mauger, Caleb Ralph, Daniel Carter, Kevin Senio, Mose Tuiali'i, Johnny Leo'o, Richard McCaw (captain), Reuben Thorne, Chris Jack, Greg Somerville, Tone Kopelani, Wyatt Crockett.
Reserves:
Corey Flynn, Campbell Johnstone, Ross Filipo, Tanerau Latimer, Andrew Ellis, Cameron McIntyre, Rico Gear.
- NZPA
McCaw named at blindside
Richie McCaw
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