Read rushed back for Crusaders' decider
The two teams, in a four-horse race for top spot in the New Zealand conference, meet in Christchurch on Saturday.
Coach Todd Blackadder made three changes to the side that beat the Rebels last weekend.
Prop Wyatt Crockett moves back into the starting fifteen, shifting Alex Hodgman onto the bench.
Jimmy Tupou will move from No.8 to No.6 this week, with Read returning at No.8 and also captains the side – coming back into the team after being rested last week.
Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Johnny McNicholl, 13 Ryan Crotty, 12 David Havili, 11 Nemani Nadolo, 10 Richie Mo'unga, 9 Andy Ellis, 8 Kieran Read (captain), 7 Matt Todd, 6 Jimmy Tupou, 5 Sam Whitelock, 4 Scott Barrett, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Wyatt Crockett.
Replacements: 16 Ben Funnell, 17 Alex Hodgman, 18 Mike Alaalatoa, 19 Luke Romano, 20 Pete Samu, 21 Mitchell Drummond, 22 Mitch Hunt, 23 Kieron Fonotia.
Date: Saturday, July 16
Venue: AMI Stadium, Christchurch
Kick-off: 17.15 (05.15 GMT)
Referee: Ben O'Keeffe (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: Mike Fraser (New Zealand), Brendon Pickerill (New Zealand)
TMO: Glenn Newman (New Zealand)
