Super Rugby
Crusaders stars make their return
ESPN Staff
March 12, 2015
Kieran Read will make his return to the Crusaders along with Sam Whitelock and Nemani Nadolo © Getty Images
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Kieran Read, Sam Whitelock and Nemani Nadolo will make their return to Super Rugby on Saturday when the Crusaders take on the Lions in Christchurch. Coach Todd Blackadder has made 10 changes to the starting line-up thumped 40-16 by the Chiefs two weeks ago.

Kieran Read will play at No.8 and captain the side, with Jordan Taufua moving to the blindside and and Richie McCaw taking over on the openside flank. Sam Whitelock will pair up with Luke Romano at lock, with Scott Barrett providing cover from the bench.

The other change in the forwards comes with Owen Franks' return at prop after serving a two-week suspension. In the backs, Andy Ellis will take the starting halfback spot, while Nadolo will play his first Super Rugby game of 2015 on one wing, with Johnny McNicholl on the other.

Dan Carter returns from injury to play at second five, pushing Ryan Crotty out one place to centre.

Crusaders: Tom Taylor, Johnny McNicholl, Ryan Crotty, Dan Carter, Nemani Nadolo, Colin Slade, Andy Ellis, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw, Jordon Taufua, Sam Whitelock, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Ben Funnell, Wyatt Crockett. Reserves: Codie Taylor, Joe Moody, Nepo Laulala, Scott Barrett, Luke Whitelock, Mitchell Drummond, Kieron Fonotia, David Havili.

© AAP

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