Crusaders coach Robbie Deans has rolled out the heavy artillery for the Super 14 leader's rugby match against the Chiefs in Hamilton on Friday night.

Deans has made four personnel and seven positional changes to the side which beat the Lions 31-6 in Christchurch last weekend.

He has included all of his available top players after fielding a number of second stringers against the Lions as the Crusaders seek to extend their eight-game unbeaten streak.

Stephen Brett will take his place at five-eighth as he makes his first start in a month due to a shoulder injury.

Brett came off the bench for 10 minutes against the Lions when Hamish Gard started at No.10 in the absence of the injured Dan Carter.

Brad Thorn has overcome a calf injury to take his place at lock while regular captain Richie McCaw returns on the openside flank.

McCaw, Ross Filipo, Kade Poki and Kahn Fotuali'i have all been reintroduced to the 22-strong squad after missing the win over the Lions, replacing George Whitelock, Michael Paterson, the injured Reuben Thorne and Steve Alfeld respectively.

Winger Poki and halfback Fotuali'i, stood down from the playing 22 last week after missing a training session during the previous week, have been on the reserves bench.

Also on the bench is lock Filipo, who is set for his first Super 14 action of the season after recovering from neck surgery in the off-season.

Fullback Leon MacDonald has been allowed another week to recover from the thigh muscle tear he sustained against the Hurricanes on March 28.

In his absence, Scott Hamilton will again start from fullback.

Chiefs coach Ian Foster has stuck with proven combinations in naming his team with the starting 15 unchanged from the side which beat the Highlanders and Brumbies in recent matches.

The only change is on the reserves bench where utility back Sosene Anesi returns to the frame after recovering from an ankle injury, leaving winger Viliame Waqaseduadua out of the starting 22.

"It was a logical change to go with Sosene instead of Vili as Sosene gives us cover at both fullback and wing," Foster said.

Foster said the Chiefs, fresh from a bye week, were excited to be playing the competition-leading Crusaders at home.

"Chiefs and Crusaders matches are always great occasions and the fact they come to us unbeaten this year just makes this game even more exciting."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP