Crusader back Rua Tipoki during last week's match against the Highlanders. Photo / Getty Images
There are five changes to the Crusaders side named today for Friday night's Super 14 rugby match against the Hurricanes in Christchurch.
Three of the personnel changes to the 15 which started last weekend's 38-3 win over the Highlanders at Dunedin, have come in the backline with the
other two up front.
Of the backline changes, one has been caused by injury with Rua Tipoki coming in at second-five-eighths for Aaron Mauger, who has not yet fully recovered from the groin strain he suffered against the Highlanders.
Winger Rico Gear is also back, after being rested from last weekend's trip to Dunedin. He returns in the place of Scott Hamilton, who moves to the run on reserves bench.
The halfbacks have been rotated again with Andrew Ellis starting in place of Kevin Senio.
The final change comes in the front row where Ben Franks swaps sides, with Wyatt Crockett coming into loosehead prop while Campbell Johnstone goes to reserves.
Crusaders:
Leon MacDonald, Rico Gear, Casey Laulala, Rua Tipoki, Caleb Ralph, Daniel Carter, Andrew Ellis, Mose Tuiali'i, Richard McCaw (captain), Kieran Read, Reuben Thorne, Ross Filipo, Ben Franks, Corey Flynn, Wyatt Crockett.
Reserves:
Scott Hamilton, Stephen Brett, Kevin Senio, Johnny Leo'o, Issac Ross, Campbell Johnstone, Ti'i Paulo.
- NZPA
