The Crusaders play their fourth consecutive South African side this weekend when they meet the Sharks in Durban. The Sharks are currently sitting near the top of the table having won 4 out of 5 games and have come off a bye last week so will be rested and rearing to go. The two teams last met in 2011 in the playoffs where the Crusaders won 36-8 securing a place in the semi-finals.

Head Coach Todd Blackadder has named his team making four changes to the starting fifteen that played the Stormers last weekend.

Andy Ellis returns to halfback moving Willi Heinz to the bench. Zac Guildford moves to the left wing to replace Johnny McNicholl who fractured his fibula in last weekend’s game against the Stormers. While Adam Whitelock takes his place on the right wing.

Ben Funnell takes the number 2 jersey replacing Corey Flynn who has incurred an eye injury during training.

On the bench Telusa Veainu will have the opportunity to make his first appearance for the Crusaders if he makes it onto the field.

Kick-off is at 7:10pm on Friday 5 April (6.10am on Saturday 6th April NZ time) at Mr Price Kings Park, Durban.

Crusaders team to play the Sharks: