A host of new players will take the field for the Crusaders when the side meets the French Barbarians on Friday.
The team contains a total of six debutants, four of which were recently named in Canterbury’s wider training group for the provincial championship.
Halfback Mitchell Drummond will lead the Crusaders for the first time and will be assisted by prop Michael Alaalatoa and wing Israel Dagg, who have been named as vice-captains.
No. 8 Whetu Douglas will start from the bench.
The Crusaders will perform their haka ‘Takina Te Kawa’ prior to the match, the same one unveiled against the British and Irish Lions last year.
Kick off at AMI Stadium is scheduled for 7:35pm
Crusaders: 15. Mitchell Hunt, 14. Israel Dagg (VC), 13. Tima Faingaanuku, 12. Rameka Poihipi, 11. Jone Macilai, 10. Mike Delany, 9. Mitchell Drummond, 8. Ethan Blackadder, 7. Billy Harmon, 6. Mitchell Dunshea, 5. Hamish Dalzell, 4. Quinten Strange, 3. Michael Alaalatoa, 2. Andrew Makalio, 1. Donald Brighouse
Reserves: 16. Seb Siataga, 17. Ryan Coxon, 18. Chris King, 19. Luke Romano, 20. Whetu Douglas, 21. Jack Stratton
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