All Blacks captain Richie McCaw will make his first appearance for the Crusaders this season, off the bench in the final pre season game against the Hurricanes this weekend.
Coach Todd Blackadder will field an all-All Black back row with Matt Todd at open-side flanker, George Whitelock on the blindside and Luke Whitelock at number eight.
The Crusaders will start 11 past and present All Blacks with another five, including McCaw and senior All Black lock Sam Whitelock, on an 11-strong substitutes' bench.
The Super Rugby season kicks off this Sunday with the Cheetahs taking on the Lions while the Sharks play the Bulls.
The Crusaders will meet the Chiefs in their opening clash next Friday.
Story by: Aliki Bia
Source: Stuff Sports
