Massive blow for Crusaders
Samuel Whitelock has been withdrawn after developing some minor symptoms late yesterday. This has meant he cannot complete the Post-Concussion Return to Play process this week but he will continue to progress his activity under medical guidance.
Luke Romano will start alongside Scott Barrett, and Quinten Strange has been brought on to the bench. Matt Todd will now captain the side and Tim Bateman will be vice-captain.
Mike Delany has jarred his knee at training on Thursday and has also been withdrawn from this weekend's game after review on Friday. He will be reviewed by the medical team on Monday.
Brett Cameron has been brought in to the matchday 23 as first flyhalf cover.
Crusaders – revised: 15 David Havili, 14 Seta Tamanivalu, 13 Jack Goodhue, 12 Tim Bateman, 11 George Bridge, 10 Mitchell Hunt, 9 Mitchell Drummond, 8 Jordan Taufua, 7 Matt Todd (captain), 6 Heiden Bedwell-Curtis, 5 Luke Romano, 4 Scott Barrett, 3 Michael Alaalatoa, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Wyatt Crockett.
Replacements: 16 Ben Funnell, 17 Chris King, 18 Oliver Jager, 19 Quinten Strange, 20 Billy Harmon, 21 Bryn Hall, 22 Brett Cameron, 23 Manasa Mataele.
Date: Saturday, March 17
Venue: Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
Kick-off: 19.35 (08.35 GMT)
Referee: Nick Briant (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: Mike Fraser (New Zealand), James Doleman (New Zealand)
TMO: Glenn Newman (New Zealand)
