The Crusaders and the Highlanders will be strengthened by the return of leading All Blacks when they meet Saturday in the first round of Super Rugby playoffs.
Center Ryan Crotty, who injured a hamstring last month in the first test between New Zealand and the British and Irish Lions, is among five All Blacks who rejoin the Christchurch-based Crusaders’ starting lineup.
Frontrowers Joe Moody, Codie Taylor and Owen Franks, who were rested when the Crusaders were beaten 31-22 by the Wellington-based Hurricanes last weekend – ending their 14-match winning streak in Super Rugby this season – all return to the starting XV.