Fringe All Black Zac Guildford will make his first start of the season for the Crusaders in their Super Rugby match against the Sharks in London on Monday morning (AEDT).

The Hawke's Bay winger, who had been sidelined with a hamstring injury until he came off the bench in last week's 44-13 thumping of the Highlanders, replaces Adam Whitelock for the Twickenham clash.

The other change for the Crusaders is in the front row where loosehead prop Wyatt Crockett swaps places with Ben Franks who is relegated to the reserves.

Crusaders five-eighth Dan Carter is expecting a physical encounter against the massive South African side.

"They are a team full of big, fast men and it will be a very tough match. They have strengths across the park, but we've prepared well for them. We are all looking forward to playing at Twickenham - it's easy to get excited about this one," he said.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said they were hoping to put the hectic week behind them.

"It will be a big test for us, but I'm confident we can put in a performance to be proud of. We're looking forward to playing in front of a big crowd - the atmosphere and sense of occasion should be superb," he said.

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