Springboks heavyweights Victor Matfield and Bryan Habana will return for the Bulls in their Super 14 rugby match against the Crusaders in Christchurch on Friday.

Lock Matfield and winger Habana missed the first two games of the Bulls' three-match tour of New Zealand - the 19-14 defeat of the Hurricanes in Wellington and 36-12 loss to the Highlanders in Palmerston North.

The latter result was their first defeat of the competition and saw them drop from first to third, prompting coach Frans Ludeke to give his experienced pair the green light.

While a team won't be named until Wednesday, Ludeke confirmed his power pair would play.

"(Matfield and Habana) bring a massive amount of experience to the side and they are highly respected by the opposition," Ludeke told South African reporters.

"Victor is a key member of our decision-making axis and his leadership is as vital as his playing contribution.

"Bryan has been great for the vibe of the team since he's arrived. He remains a special player in my view and I expect him to play a big role for us in this campaign."

Habana will play for the first time in a month after breaking his hand against the Lions.

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