Three changes have been made to the Crusaders starting 15 for a Super Rugby match against the Bulls in Timaru on Saturday night.

Injuries have ruled out five-eighth Dan Carter and lock Sam Whitelock, with the other change coming in the front row where Ben Franks gets a start at tighthead prop ahead of his brother Owen.

Carter is troubled by a hamstring complaint while Whitelock is carrying an ankle injury.

Chris Jack starts alongside Brad Thorn at lock, while Matt Berquist gets his first start of the season as Carter's replacement.

On the reserves bench, lock Luke Romano comes into the match-day squad for the first time, and Joe Wheeler is bracketed with Jonathan Poff. Wheeler comes into the mix for the first time following a shoulder reconstruction last year.

A final decision between the two will be made after training today.

Tasman player Tom Marshall comes on to the bench as backs cover.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder expects a tough physical test against the Bulls, the defending champions.

"We are very aware of their threats across the park so we'll have to be switched on from the kickoff," he said.

"We have great depth in our squad so we're comfortable with the replacements for our injured guys. Matt has played well for us when coming on during matches and Chris has played over 100 matches for the Crusaders so that speaks for itself."

Crusaders: Israel Dagg, Sean Maitland, Robbie Fruean, Sonny Bill Williams, Zac Guildford, Matt Berquist, Andy Ellis, Kieran Read (capt), Matt Todd, George Whitelock, Chris Jack, Brad Thorn, Ben Franks, Corey Flynn, Wyatt Crockett. Res: Quentin MacDonald, Owen Franks, Luke Romano, Jonathan Poff/Joe Wheeler, Kahn Fotuali'i, Tom Marshall, Adam Whitelock.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP