Crusaders change two for Waratahs

Christchurch - Crusaders head coach Todd Blackadder has made two changes to his starting line-up for Friday's clash with the Waratahs in Christchurch.

The rotations are at loosehead prop and inside centre, with Joe Moody and Ryan Crotty taking the starting spots, and Wyatt Crockett and David Havili moving to the bench.

Scrumhalf Andy Ellis will play his 150th Crusaders game. He will be just the third Crusader to reach this milestone (joining Corey Flynn and Crockett).

Blackadder said it would be a special occasion for Ellis, but also for the whole team who will be determined to make it a night to remember for their team-mate.

"Andy is such a popular member of this team and we all want this to be a memorable night for him, for all the right reasons," he said.

"150 games is a significant milestone that only a few players can lay claim to, and Andy deserves all the credit he gets this week.

"It is particularly special for Andy to mark this milestone in front of a home crowd.  This is the last home game we’ll play until July, so it would be great to get a strong turnout on Friday night to cheer the team on."

Teams:

Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Johnny McNicholl, 13 Kieron Fonotia, 12 Ryan Crotty, 11 Jone Macilai, 10 Richie Mo'unga, 9 Andy Ellis, 8 Kieran Read (captain), 7 Matt Todd, 6 Jordan Taufua, 5 Sam Whitelock, 4 Luke Romano, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Joe Moody

Substitutes: 16 Ged Robinson, 17 Wyatt Crockett, 18 Mika Alaalatoa, 19 Scott Barrett, 20 Tim Boys, 21 Mitchell Drummond, 22 David Havili, 23 Marty McKenzie

Waratahs:

TBA