Rugby: Ellis back at halfback for Crusaders

Andy Ellis will be back at halfback when the Crusaders face the Hurricanes. Photo / Getty

Halfback Andy Ellis returns to the Crusaders' starting line-up against the Hurricanes on Saturday.

Ellis was on the reserves bench during the 29-15 victory by his team over the Blues in Christchurch last weekend and watched as Mitchell Drummond scored the first try and generally performed with distinction.

But coach Todd Blackadder has gone back to his experienced No9 for the match against the table-topping Hurricanes in Wellington.

Flanker Richie McCaw has been ruled out with concussion, and fullback Israel Dagg remains sidelined by his calf problem. Matt Todd starts in the No7 jersey alongside fellow loose forwards Kieran Read and Jordan Taufua, while Tom Taylor has been picked again at the back.

The match will be prop Wyatt Crockett's 150th for the Crusaders.

"This is a remarkable achievement for any player and Crocky deserves every accolade he gets on this special occasion," Blackadder said. "He is the ultimate team man and a true Crusaders legend. We all love him for his positivity, wit and loyalty and we are looking forward to honouring the big man on Saturday night."

Crusaders team to play the Hurricanes at Westpac Stadium on Saturday, kick-off 7.35pm:

Tom Taylor, David Havili, Ryan Crotty, Dan Carter, Nemani Nadolo, Colin Slade, Andy Ellis, Kieran Read (c), Matt Todd, Jordan Taufua, Sam Whitelock, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Codie Taylor, Wyatt Crockett.

Reserves: Ben Funnell, Joe Moody, Nepo Laulala, Jimmy Tupou, Luke Whitelock, Mitchell Drummond, Kieron Fonotia, Nafi Tuitavake.