George Bridge returns: Crusaders team named to play the Highlanders

The Crusaders are refreshed from the bye and preparing to host the Highlanders at Orangetheory Stadium this Easter weekend. 

Head Coach Scott Robertson has confirmed the highly-anticipated return of George Bridge to the starting side for Friday night's southern derby, following the injury he sustained during All Blacks training in October last year. Bridge will start on the right wing, with Sevu Reece moving to the reserves and the in-form Leicester Fainga'anuku retaining his spot on the left wing. 

The only other change to the team, from the 23 that took the field at Eden Park two weeks ago, sees Mitchell Drummond start in his 98th appearance for the club, with Bryn Hall to come off the bench. 

Kick off in the Crusaders game against the Highlanders is 7:05pm, Friday 2nd April, at Orangetheory Stadium in Christchurch. The match will be televised live on Sky Sport.