Richie McCaw has been named to start for the Crusaders in their Super Rugby match against the Western Force in Perth on Saturday night.

A bruised foot forced McCaw to miss last weekend’s match against the Highlanders.

McCaw will start at No8, replacing Joe Wheeler, who has been bracketed on the bench with former All Black Reuben Thorne.

Sonny Bill Williams also starts at second five ahead of Adam Whitelock.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said he is expecting a good response from his players following the loss to the Highlanders.

The Crusaders meet the Force at 12:05am on Sunday morning.

The lone match on Friday at 7:35pm will see the Highlanders host the Blues in Dunedin.


Story by: Selina Navuso