Super Rugby 2019: Prop Owen Franks poised - again - for Crusaders 150th

All Blacks prop Owen Franks has waited five weeks to notch up his 150th game for the Crusaders - this could be a matter of fifth time lucky.

Franks, 31, has been named in an international front row to take on the Brumbies in Christchurch's first Super Rugby outing since last month's tragic mosque shootings.

The test centurion brought up his 149th appearance against the Reds on March 3, but rested the following week against the Chiefs, was named for the cancelled road game against the Highlanders, withdrew injured against the Waratahs and missed last week's win over the Hurricanes with the same shoulder complaint.

"He's been stuck on that, hasn't he?" grins Crusaders assistant coach Brad Mooar. "He's been looking to push a quick single for 150 at the SCG and it didn't come there.

"It's going to come at Christchurch Stadium, so I think, in the end, it all works out beautifully. He gets to be at home with a wide group of family and friends celebrating that."

Franks' return co-incides with that of fellow international prop Joe Moody, who injured his ankle against the Chiefs.

All Blacks captain Kieran Read has overcome the reported "double haematoma" that forced him off the field at half-time last week and will take his place at the back of the scrum. Crusaders skipper Sam Whitelock will come off the bench, with Quinten Strange taking his place at lock.

Centre Jack Goodhue takes an All Blacks-mandated rest, allowing veteran Tim Bateman to play his 50th game for the Crusaders.

Crusaders: 1-Joe Moody, 2-Codie Taylor, 3-Owen Franks, 4-Scott Barrett, 5-Quinten Strange, 6-Ethan Blackadder, 7-Matt Todd, 8-Kieran Read, 9-Mitch Drummond, 10-Richie Mo'unga, 11-Sevu Reece, 12-Ryan Crotty, 13-Tim Bateman, 14-Will Jordan, 15-David Havili

Reserves: 16-Ben Funnell, 17-Harry Allan, 18-Michael Alaalalatoa, 19-Sam Whitelock, 20-Jordan Taufua, 21-Bryn Hall, 22-Brett Cameron, 23-Leicester Faingaanuku

Newshub.

Join us at 5pm Friday for live updates of the Crusaders vs Brumbies Super Rugby clash.