Bateman bolsters Hurricanes

Hurricanes' midfielder Tim Bateman will return to the field for Friday's Super Rugby Round Seven encounter with the Crusaders.

His comeback follows after having been side-lined with a knee injury for six weeks.

Hurricanes assistant coach Alama Ieremia said Bateman's experience would be an important addition to the team when they take on the Crusaders.

"His on-field leadership will certainly help the team this weekend," Ieremia said.

"Tim's worked hard at getting himself ready and he's excited to be back in the line-up."

Bateman slots into a backline that is largely unchanged from the Hurricanes' encounter with the Highlanders last week.

However, fullback Andre Taylor has claimed a spot in the starting XV.

No.8 Blade Thomson returns to the starting line-up following an injury spell last week, while lock James Broadhurst retains his position after a strong performance last week.

Cory Jane was unavailable for selection due to an ankle injury.

Hurricanes: 15 Andre Taylor, 14 Alapati Leiua, 13 Conrad Smith (captain), 12 Tim Bateman, 11 Julian Savea, 10 Beauden Barrett, 9 TJ Perenara, 8 Blade Thomson, 7 Jack Lam, 6 Faifili Levave, 5 James Broadhurst, 4 Jeremy Thrush, 3 Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, 2 Dane Coles, 1 Ben Franks.

Replacements: 16 Ash Dixon, 17 Chris Eves, 18 John Schwalger, 19 Mark Reddish, 20 Ardie Savea, 21 Billy Guyton, 22 Matt Proctor, 23 Marty Banks.

Date: Friday, March 28

Venue: AMI Stadium, Christchurch

Kick-off: 19.35 (06.35 GMT)

Referee: Nick Briant (New Zealand)

Assistant referees: Garratt Williamson (New Zealand), Kane McBride (New Zealand)

TMO: Chris Watt (New Zealand)