Crusaders Coach Todd Blackadder admitted he is struggling for man power as the champions recover from their latest loss to Super 14 rivals the Hurricanes.

The New Zealand giants increasing injury list which includes Leon MacDonald, Kade Poki, Casey Laulala, Andy Ellis, Brad Thorn and Ben Franks, is becoming a growing concern as the struggling Highlanders await this coming Saturday.

Add to that worrying sight is winger Sean Maitland pulling up with a hamstring injury during yesterday training session.

The Crusaders most recent defeat was against Colin Cooper's side and Blackadders admitted his men came second in several battles which have all been looked at since Friday.

Crusaders take on the Highlanders on Saturday at 6.35pm in Dunedin.