Israel Dagg and the Crusaders No 15 jersey have yet to feel the love.

Although he made a dramatic impression at fullback for the All Blacks during the World Cup, Dagg is expected to play on the left wing against the Blues in Friday night's Super opener at Eden Park.

Coach Todd Blackadder will not name his side until tomorrow but by running Tom Marshall at fullback for the opening three pre season matches he has clearly flagged the young Tasman representative will probably start there in Auckland.

Since returning from his extended summer break Dagg, who admitted there was a “possibility” he would not be at fullback, has trained mostly on the wing.

Meanwhile, Crusaders stand in captain, Kieran Read wants to go one better this season from finishing as runner up to the Reds last year.