Crusaders receive Sam Whitelock boost ahead of clash against Stormers

Crusaders have received a major boost ahead of their Super Rugby clash against Stormers at DHL Newlands with skipper Sam Whitelock returning into the starting XV.

The 30-year-old returns to the second row with Scott Barrett shifting to number four and Mitchell Dunshea dropping out of the matchday 23 squad.

With head coach Scott Robertson resting Joe Moody, George Bower has been named at loosehead prop while the final change sees Jordan Taufua dropping down to the bench and Ethan Blackadder taking his place.

Crusaders currently hold the top place in the New Zealand Conference with nine wins from 12 games.

Crusaders starting XV: 15 David Havili, 14 Sevu Reece, 13 Jack Goodhue, 12 Ryan Crotty, 11 George Bridge, 10 Richie Mo’unga, 9 Bryn Hall, 8 Kieran Read, 7 Matt Todd, 6 Ethan Blackadder, 5 Sam Whitelock (c), 4 Scott Barrett, 3 Michael Alaalatoa, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 George Bower

Reserves: 16 Andrew Makalio, 17 Harry Allan, 18 Oliver Jager, 19 Luke Romano, 20 Jordan Taufua, 21 Mitchell Drummond, 22 Mitch Hunt, 23 Braydon Ennor