Rugby: Jack to start for Crusaders

Lock Chris Jack has replaced Sam Whitelock for Saturday’s match against the Waratahs. Photo / Getty Images

Former All Blacks lock Chris Jack will make his first start for the Crusaders in three years against the Waratahs in a Super 14 rugby match at Christchurch, on Saturday night.

Jack left New Zealand rugby after the All Blacks bowed out to France in their World Cup quarter-final in 2007 and has plied his trade in Britain and briefly South Africa before returning this season to try and regain his All Blacks jersey.

The 31-year-old had a slow start to the season after having an operation to a wrist, but he has come off the bench in the last two games, against the Lions and the Hurricanes, and has now been given the chance by Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder to prove he is not a spent force.

In the only other change to the Crusaders team who snatched a 26-26 draw with the Hurricanes last Friday, Kahn Fotuali'i starts at halfback in place of Andy Ellis, who suffered concussion late in the first half of last week's match.

Blackadder said tests during the week showed Ellis was not ready this week and Willi Heinz comes into the reserves.

Crusaders
Colin Slade, Sean Maitland, Robbie Fruean, Ryan Crotty, Zac Guildford, Daniel Carter, Kahn Fotuali'i, Kieran Read, George Whitelock, Richie McCaw (captain), Brad Thorn, Chris Jack, Owen Franks, Ti'i Paulo, Wyatt Crockett.

Reserves: Daniel Perrin, Ben Franks, Sam Whitelock, Thomas Waldrom, Willi Heinz, Adam Whitelock, Jared Payne.

- NZPA