Despite form that has propelled Will Jordan into All Blacks discussions, the talented outside back has been forced to the bench this weekend.
The Crusaders host the Blues on Saturday night in a battle of the unbeaten at Christchurch's Orangetheory Stadium.
A win for either will go a long way in the quest to become the inaugural Super Rugby Aotearoa champions.
But Crusaders coach Scott Robertson's embarrassment of riches when it comes to his back three has confined Jordan to the reserves.
George Bridge returns from a week off to partner Sevu Reece, who provided a game-winning spark against the Highlanders last week, when introduced late in the match.
Fullback David Havili was also excellent against the Highlanders and maintains his spot, giving the Crusaders true game-breaking ability off the bench in the form of Jordan.
Bryn Hall replaces Mitch Drummond at halfback in the only other change to the side that took the field against the Highlanders.
A win for the Crusaders on Saturday would lift the red-and-blacks at least six points above the Blues with just four games to play.
Crusaders: 1-Joe Moody, 2-Codie Taylor (c), 3-Michael Alaalatoa, 4-Sam Whitelock, 5-Mitchell Dunshea, 6-Tom Sanders, 7-Tom Christie, 8-Whetu Douglas, 9-Bryn Hall, 10-Richie Mo'unga, 11-George Bridge, 12-Jack Goodhue, 13-Braydon Ennor, 14-Sevu Reece, 15-David Havili
Reserves: 16-Andrew Makalio, 17-George Bower, 18-Oliver Jager, 19-Quinten Strange, 20-Sione Havili, 21-Mitchell Drummond, 22-Fetuli Paea, 23-Will Jordan
Join us at 7pm Saturday for live updates of the Crusaders v Blues Super Rugby Aotearoa clash
