Crusaders lose their captain

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Crusaders will play their first home game in Christchurch this Friday when they host the Highlanders.

The only changes to the starting team this week are in the forwards, with captain Scott Barrett (knee) and Oli Jager (concussion) both ruled out with injury.

Luke Romano and Michael Alaalatoa come into the starting side at lock and tighthead prop respectively. Isi Tuungafasi moves into the matchday team and will wear the No.17 jersey.

The backline remains unchanged this week, but there is a reshuffle of the captaincy with David Havili named as captain and Codie Taylor and Jack Goodhue vice-captains for this game.

Will Jordan (groin injury) has also been ruled out of this match, so Leicester Faingaanuku will be on the bench in his place. Meanwhile, Ethan Roots is set to become Crusader #241 on Friday, if called on in the reserves to make his Investec Super Rugby debut.

Crusaders: 15 David Havili (captain), 14 Sevu Reece, 13 Braydon Ennor, 12 Jack Goodhue, 11 George Bridge, 10 Richie Mo'unga, 9 Bryn Hall, 8 Tom Sanders, 7 Tom Christie, 6 Cullen Grace, 5 Mitchell Dunshea, 4 Luke Romano, 3 Michael Alaalatoa, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Joe Moody.

Replacements: 16 Andrew Makalio, 17 Isi Tuungafasi, 18 George Bower, 19 Ethan Roots, 20 Sione Havili, 21 Mitchell Drummond, 22 Brett Cameron, 23 Leicester Faingaanuku.

Date: Friday, February 21

Venue: Christchurch Stadium, Christchurch

Kick-off: 19.05 (06.05 GMT)

Referee: Mike Fraser (New Zealand)

Assistant referees: Brendon Pickerill (New Zealand), James Doleman (New Zealand)

TMO: Chris Hart (New Zealand)