Crusaders rest stars in Bloem

Bloemfontein - The Cheetahs will face a below full strength Crusaders side, fresh from their triumph over the Sharks last Saturday, in this weekend's Super 14 clash in Bloemfontein.

The defending champions, who started the campaign slowly but are again strong contenders to make at least the playoffs, are resting Kieran Read and Jason Macdonald for Saturday's clash. Veteran fullback Leon MacDonald also gets a break and will be on the bench with Read.

Scrumhalf Andy Ellis, who carried a rib injury into the Sharks match, will also start on the bench with Kahn Fotuali'i starting as Stephen Brett's halfback partner.

Crusaders:

Jared Payne, Kade Poki, Tim Bateman, Ryan Crotty, Colin Slade, Stephen Brett, Kahn Fotuali'i, Thomas Waldrom, Richie McCaw (captain), Michael Paterson, Ross Filipo, Brad Thorn, Owen Franks, Jason Macdonald, Wyatt Crockett.

Replacements: Daniel Perrin, Bronson Murray, Isaac Ross, Kieran Read, Andy Ellis, Adam Whitelock, Leon MacDonald.