Fiji born, Blues wing David Raikuna will get the real taste Super 15 rugby against the Crusaders on Friday night in the opening game of this season.

Raikuna will be up against one of the All Blacks deadliest weapons in the RWC, Israel Dagg who has been shifted by Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder to play on the left wing.

All Blacks hooker, Kevin Mealamu will captain the side which also has the likes of Ali Williams and Jerome Kaino shifted from number 6 to 8 with Isaia Toeava at fullback.

Michael Hobbs will start at flyhalf while Alby Methewson will be at halfback.

Piri Weepu will be on the bench.

Meanwhile, the All Blacks in the starting Crusaders lineup are Dagg, Andy Ellis, Kieran Read, Sam Whitelock and Ben Franks.

Owen Franks and Corey Flynn are on the bench.

Coach, Todd Blackadder’s side lost to the Blues 24-22 in Eden Park last year after they had to play away from the their favourite AMI Stadium which was damaged by the earthquake.

Blackadder is getting used to the situation now after his side had to travel more than 100,000 km last year and lost to the Reds in the final.