Rugby: Payne back in frame for Crusaders

The Crusaders are looking forward to taking on the Bulls in a Super 14 rugby match in Christchurch on Friday night, with wing Jared Payne likely to be back in the frame.

If Payne's ankle responds well to training he will take his place on the right wing, replacing Adam Whitelock, who will drop to the reserves.

Payne has not played for the Crusaders since suffering an ankle sprain in the round three loss to the Highlanders on March 7.

In other changes, prop Bronson Murray has a sore calf muscle and will not play. Owen Franks will replace him at tighthead, with Peter Borlase coming on to the bench as cover.

Andy Ellis (sore ribs) will be replaced at halfback by Kahn Fotuali'i, with Tyson Keats coming into the reserves.

George Whitelock (cut thigh) comes back at openside flanker, replacing Nasi Manu, who drops to the reserves.

Crusaders head coach Todd Blackadder acknowledged the Bulls were a big, tough team, but was sure his side would give a good account of themselves after wins against the Waratahs in Sydney and Stormers in Christchurch last Saturday.

"We're really excited about playing one of the form teams in the competition, especially at home," he said.

"We know they have a big pack but we just have to be more efficient and smart in the things we do. If you run directly at them it plays into their hands.

"But these challenges are what rugby is all about. I'm sure the players will be up to the task on Friday night."

Crusaders
Leon MacDonald, Jared Payne, Casey Laulala, Tim Bateman, Colin Slade, Stephen Brett, Kahn Fotuali'i, Thomas Waldrom, George Whitelock, Kieran Read (captain), Isaac Ross, Brad Thorn, Owen Franks, Jason Macdonald, Wyatt Crockett.

Reserves: Daniel Perrin, Peter Borlase, Michael Paterson, Nasi Manu, Tyson Keats, Ryan Crotty, Adam Whitelock.

- NZPA