McCaw back for Crusaders

Durban - Richie McCaw is back to lead the Crusaders as they line up the Sharks in a Super 14 match in Durban on Saturday.

All Blacks captain McCaw, who has not played for more than a month since suffering a medial ligament strain against the Highlanders, makes a timely return as his replacement during his absence, George Whitelock, is heading home from the side's tour South Africa for treatment on a knee injury.

Also slated for a start is scrumhalf Andy Ellis who has been out with sore ribs for a number of weeks, missing the Crusaders last match against the Bulls two weeks ago.

Ellis has been bracketed with Kahn Fotuali'i.

With centre Casey Laulala's season ending with a broken arm suffered during the 16-13 defeat of the Bulls, coach Todd Blackaader has opted to start Tim Bateman in his place.

Ryan Crotty has been promoted off the bench into the No 12 shirt.

Crusaders:

Leon MacDonald, Jared Payne, Tim Bateman, Ryan Crotty, Colin Slade, Stephen Brett, Andy Ellis/Kahn Fotuali'i, Thomas Waldrom, Richie McCaw (captain), Kieran Read, Isaac Ross, Brad Thorn, Bronson Murray, Jason Macdonald, Wyatt Crockett.

Replacements: Daniel Perrin, Owen Franks, Ross Filipo, Michael Paterson, Kahn Fotuali'i/Tyson Keats, Adam Whitelock, Kade Poki.