Carter back, Fruean out

Editor

The Crusaders have axed Robbie Fruean from their matchday 22 while Dan Carter returns to the squad for Sunday's clash with the Rebels.

The Crusaders have dropped Robbie Fruean from their matchday 22 while Dan Carter returns to the squad for Sunday's meeting with the Rebels.

In one of four changes to the side, coach Todd Blackadder has left out the centre due to a combination of him requiring a rest and form.

That sees Tom Taylor come into the XV at inside centre while Ryan Crotty shifts to the thirteen jersey, with Tyler Bleyendaal continuing at fly-half.

Joe Moody starts as loosehead prop moving Wyatt Crockett to the bench while Willi Heinz replaces Andy Ellis at scrum-half. Carter is expected to get a spell in the closing quarter.

“It will be great to be playing with a bit of sun on our backs and is an ideal day out for families. The early kick off time makes it a fantastic opportunity to bring the kids along,” said Blackadder.

Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Tom Marshall, 13 Ryan Crotty, 12 Tom Taylor, 11 Zac Guildford, 10 Tyler Bleyendaal, 9 Willi Heinz, 8 Luke Whitelock, 7 Matt Todd, 6 George Whitelock (c), 5 Sam Whitelock, 4 Luke Romano, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Joe Moody.
Replacements: 16 Ben Funnell, 17 Wyatt Crockett, 18 Dominic Bird, 19 Jordan Taufua, 20 Andy Ellis, 21 Dan Carter, 22 Adam Whitelock.

Date: Sunday, April 28
Kick-off: 16:05 local (05:05 BST, 04:05 GMT)
Venue: AMI Stadium
Referee: Nick Briant (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: Garratt Williamson (New Zealand), Kane McBride (New Zealand)
Television match official: Vinny Munro (New Zealand)