Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has hinted Flying Fijians wing Nemani Nadolo will be back in the Crusaders this weekend.

The seven‑time champions are coming off a bye week and have only won one of their opening three games.

Nadolo has played two matches for the Crusaders development team since returning from Japan and indicated last week he was keen to return to the top side.

Blackadder said the All Blacks quartet of Dan Carter, Owen Franks, Sam Whitelock and Kieran Read are all available this week and, along with Nadolo, are likely to be thrown in the deep end.

He added that a lot of pressure is on these players as they have not played a lot of rugby lately.

The Crusaders will take on the Lions at 3.30pm Saturday.