Rugby: Crusaders spring Carter surprise

Dan Carter will enjoy his first action since limping off in round one. Photo / Getty

Todd Blackadder has named the returning Dan Carter at second-five, a surprise for many who thought the All Black, back from a leg injury in round one, would slot back into No10 against the Lions on Saturday.

Instead, Colin Slade retains his place at first-five, with Blackadder naming Tom Taylor at No15 in Israel Dagg's absence with a thigh problem.

It is a difficult juggling act for Blackadder, but Taylor didn't look assured there in the 40-16 loss to the Chiefs a fortnight ago and has had trouble in the position before - most notably on defence in the loss to the Hurricanes in Wellington last year.

Slade's defence, pace and bravery under the high ball makes him an ideal proposition at the back, but Blackadder clearly wants his direction at pivot to pave the way for Carter's return.

The Slade/Carter combination worked quite well for the Crusaders last year on the way to the final and it could be that Blackadder sees Carter's future there as long as Slade stays fit and in form.

The other changes are more straightforward, with Kieran Read, Sam Whitelock and Nemani Nadolo to make their first appearances of the season. All will start, with Read captaining the team at No8. Matt Todd has been rested, which has allowed Richie McCaw to wear the No7 jersey.

Sam Whitelock starts at lock, with Nadolo on the left wing.

Owen Franks returns from his two-match suspension to tighthead prop.

Crusaders team to play the Lions at AMI Stadium on Saturday, kick-off 4.30pm:

Tom Taylor, Johnny McNicholl, Ryan Crotty, Dan Carter, Nemani Nadolo, Colin Slade, Andy Ellis, Kieran Read (c), Richie McCaw, Jordan 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.