Skipper Kieran Read is among a group players backing up from All Blacks duty in a near full-strength Crusaders side to face the Chiefs in the first Super Rugby match to be staged in Fiji.
The No.8 is coming off his first series as regular Test captain, having led New Zealand to a 3-0 sweep over Wales.
Other current All Blacks in the Crusaders’ starting XV for the clash in Suva on Friday night are fullback Israel Dagg, lock Sam Whitelock and the front row of Owen Franks, Codie Taylor and Wyatt Crockett.
Prop Joe Moody has been included on the bench for a contest that features the top two sides in the New Zealand conference.
However, inside centre Ryan Crotty and lock Luke Romano, who also played in the series against Wales, have been ruled out through injury.
The bench also includes flanker Jed Brown and fullback/five-eighth Mitchell Hunt, who are in line to make their debuts.
Crusaders: Israel Dagg, Jone Macilai, Kieron Fonotia, David Havili, Nemani Nadolo, Richie Mo’unga, Andy Ellis, Kieran Read (capt), Matt Todd, Jordan Taufua, Sam Whitelock, Scott Barrett, Owen Franks, Codie Taylor, Wyatt Crockett. Res: Ben Funnell, Joe Moody, Mike Alaalatoa, Jimmy Tupou, Jed Brown, Mitchell Drummond, Mitchell Hunt, Sean Wainui.
Kuruki
Roar Guru
Chiefs midfield are going to destroy the Crusaders. Anton Lienart-Brown has made the step up and is looking like a serious All Black prospect for the future.
Old Bugger
Guest
If we can just win our share of set-piece and ruck turnovers, then I'm gonna pick the Chiefs back-line should give the Saders back-line, a run for their money. But as always, the forwards battle, will be the key in this match.....
CUW
Guest
this is the kind of game that shud be played in Japan. if they are serious about spreading the gospel. two very good teams going head to head and with a lot at stake. the games played in Japan were rubbish. the enthusiasm of those fans deserves more.
cantab
Guest
huge game, almost a knock out.