Flynn back for trans-Tasman clash

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder named a team that shows three changes for the trans-Tasman clash with the Waratahs in Christchurch on Friday.

Corey Flynn returns from an injury to his hamstring to take the No.2 jersey, moving Ben Funnell to the bench.

A fractured finger for Sam Whitelock gives Dominic Bird the opportunity to start alongside Luke Romano, while Jimmy Tupou comes onto the bench.

In the backs the jostle for the scrumhalf position sees Willi Heinz make the starting XV and Andy Ellis move to the bench.

This is the last game the Crusaders will play at home before a four-week June break.

Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Tom Marshall, 13 Ryan Crotty, 12 Tom Taylor, 11 Zac Guildford, 10 Dan Carter, 9 Willi Heinz, 8 Kieran Read (captain), 7 Matt Todd, 6 George Whitelock, 5 Dominic Bird, 4 Luke Romano, 3 Nepo Laulala, 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Wyatt Crockett.

Replacements: 16 Ben Funnell, 17  Joe Moody, 18  Jimmy Tupou, 19  Luke Whitelock, 20  Andy Ellis, 21 Robbie Fruean, 22  Adam Whitelock.

Date: Friday, May 31

Venue: AMI Stadium, Christchurch

Kick-off: 19.35 (17.35 AEST; 07.35 GMT)

Referee: Glen Jackson

Assistant referees: Richard Kelly, Shane McDermott

TMO: Glenn Newman