Veteran Crusaders lock Chris Jack will captain the team in their Super Rugby pre-season match against the Reds in Cairns on Saturday.

Several players, including Israel Dagg, Sean Maitland, Zac Guildford, Ben Franks and Kahn Fotuali'i, will not travel with the team on Thursday due to minor injuries picked up in training.

Hooker Corey Flynn is also unavailable due to a calf injury and midfield back Ryan Crotty is out because of a thumb injury suffered before Christmas.

Back Johnny McNichol, lock Joel Everson, wing Patrick Osborne and hooker Francis Smith have been brought in as cover.

Crusaders: Tom Marshall, Patrick Osborne, Robbie Fruean, Adam Whitelock, Tu Umaga-Marshall, Tyler Bleyendaal, Willi Heinz, Luke Whitelock, Matt Todd, Brendon O'Connor, Luke Romano, Chris Jack (capt), Nicholas Barrett, Quentin MacDonald, Wyatt Crockett. Res: Jonny McNichol, Tom Taylor, Matt Berquist, Steve Alfeld, George Whitelock, Joel Everson, Andrew Olorenshaw, Codie Taylor, Francis Smith, Sam Prattley.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP