McCaw rested for Bulls match

All Blacks flanker Richie McCaw has been rested for a second successive week after Crusaders coach Robbie Deans today named his team for their crunch Super 14 rugby match against the Bulls.

McCaw, spelled in last week's loss to the Stormers, will again warm a grandstand seat when the Crusaders run out in Pretoria on Saturday (NZ time).

Deans named rookie Tanerau Latimer at No 7 for his first start, while back-up openside flanker Johnny Leo'o has switched to the blindside.

In other changes to the starting 15 from last week, star first five-eighth Dan Carter returns along with fullback Leon MacDonald while Andrew Ellis starts at halfback.

Reuben Thorne jumps into lock while prop Wyatt Crockett comes into the front row.

Outside back Scott Hamilton was bracketed on the bench with Stephen Brett after struggling with a shin injury.

The Crusaders, second on 42 points, have encountered the speed wobbles in the closing stages of the tournament.

Before the Stormers loss, they drew against the bottom-placed Force, and need to win their remaining two games against the Bulls and Brumbies to secure a semifinal place.

Deans suggested yesterday that McCaw, All Blacks captain-in-waiting, would probably be rested again given his hectic schedule ahead after benefiting from last week's break.

Crusaders team:

Leon MacDonald, Rico Gear, Casey Laulala, Aaron Mauger, Caleb Ralph, Daniel Carter, Andrew Ellis, Mose Tuiali'i, Tanerau Latimer, Johnny Leo'o, Reuben Thorne (captain), Chris Jack, Greg Somerville, Corey Flynn, Wyatt Crockett.

Reserves:

Stephen Brett/Scott Hamilton, Cameron McIntyre, Kevin Senio, Brad Mika, Craig Clarke, Campbell Johnstone, Tone Kopelani.

- NZPA