Rugby: Kieran Read to start for Crusaders against Hurricanes

Kieran Read of the Crusaders. Photo / Getty

Kieran Read has just led the All Blacks through a torrid Lions tour but has put his hand up for more for the Crusaders.

The No8 will start for Scott Robertson's men against the Hurricanes in Wellington on Saturday, and while he won't be captain, with Matt Todd taking over those duties from Sam Whitelock, who has been named on the reserves bench, it is a minor surprise to see Read back in the breach so quickly.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen had said he would be keeping an eye on the selections for this match with the Super Rugby finals around the corner and the Rugby Championship starting in five weeks.

The Crusaders are guaranteed a home quarter-final, but while All Blacks front rowers Joe Moody, Codie Taylor and Owen Franks all get the week off, Robertson has still named a strong side for what is likely to be a hotly-contested match if the first one of the season in May is anything to go by.

Israel Dagg, who played in all three tests plus the Crusaders match against the Lions, has been named at fullback, with George Bridge and Seta Tamanivalu rounding out the back three.

Whitelock's place at lock alongside Luke Romano has been taken by Scott Barrett, who makes a welcome return from knee and ankle injuries.

The Crusaders, undefeated in Super Rugby this season, must win the match in order to guarantee themselves a home final if they get that far.

Clearly Read, disappointed to finish his 100th test in a draw, which also squared the series against the Lions, has told Robertson he is good to go physically as well as mentally.

Getting straight out on the pitch again against the Hurricanes at the scene of the second test loss could be one way to put those bad memories to rest.

Crusaders team to play Hurricanes at Westpac Stadium on Saturday, kick-off 7.35pm is: Israel Dagg, Seta Tamanivalu, Jack Goodhue, David Havili, George Bridge, Richie Mo'unga, Bryn Hall, Kieran Read, Matt Todd (c), Jordan Taufua, Scott Barrett, Luke Romano, Michael Alaalatoa, Ben Funnell, Wyatt Crockett.

Reserves: Andrew Makalio, Tim Perry, Oliver Jager, Sam Whitelock, Jed Brown, Mitch Drummond, Mitch Hunt, Sean Wainui.

Hurricanes: Jordie Barrett, Nehe Milner-Skudder, Vince Aso, Ngani Laumape, Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett, TJ Perenara (c), Brad Shields, Ardie Savea, Vaea Fifita, Sam Lousi, Mark Abbott, Jeff Toomaga-Allen, Ricky Riccitelli, Ben May.

Reserves: James O'Reilly, Chris Eves, Loni Uhila, Reed Prinsep, Callum Gibbins, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Wes Goosen, Cory Jane.