Ryan Crotty returns for Crusaders with season on the line

The Crusaders have it all to play for in round 15's Super Rugby Pacific clash against Moana Pasifika and have leaned on some veteran talent to get them over the line.

Former All Black Ryan Crotty has been named at second five-eighth for the Christchurch clash, partnering with Dallas McLoed at centre.

Scott Barrett is still absent for the decisive contest and will be joined on the sidelines by fellow All Blacks Fletcher Newell, Sevu Reece and David Havili as well as centre Levi Aumua.

The absences make way for a starting front row of Joe Moody, Codie Taylor and Tamaiti Williams, while in the second row, Antonio Shalfoon and Quinten Strange get the starting nods.

The loose forward trio is once again made up of Cullen Grace at blindside flanker, Ethan Blackadder at openside and Christian Lio-Willie at No. 8.

Noah Hotham continues his strong form at halfback and is again joined by Fergus Burke after the halves duo's impressive performance against the Blues.

Operating outside Crotty and McLeod will be Macca Springer and Chay Fihaki on the wings and Johnny McNicholl at fullback.

Crusaders team to play Moana Pasifika 

1. Joe Moody
2. Codie Taylor
3. Tamaiti Williams
4. Antonio Shalfoon
5. Quinten Strange
6. Cullen Grace
7. Ethan Blackadder
8. Christian Lio-Willie
9. Noah Hotham
10. Fergus Burke
11. Macca Springer
12. Ryan Crotty
13. Dallas McLeod
14. Chay Fihaki
15. Johnny McNicholl

Reserves

16. George Bell

17. George Bower

18. Owen Franks

19. Jamie Hannah

20. Tom Christie

21. Mitch Drummond

22. Taine Robinson

23. Heremaia Murray