The Crusaders have received mixed news on the injury front ahead of Saturday's clash against the Highlanders, with captain Sam Whitelock cleared of concussion while Ryan Crotty was ruled out after suffering a head knock in the loss to the Hurricanes.
Crusaders coach Scott Robertson played down any long-term concerns for Crotty as he named Tim Bateman to start in the No.12 jersey at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
"Given the history he's had, it's best to give him (Crotty) time off but there are no long-term concerns," Robertson said.
The South Island derby looms as a strange experience for as many as 20 players on both sides after they began the week together in All Blacks' camp in Christchurch.
Seven Highlanders were joined by 13 Crusaders at the "foundation day" for South Island players on Monday with Whitelock and Crotty both absent due to their concussion issues.
The Highlanders named speedster Tevita Li in place of Tevita Nabura on the left flank, while Aki Seiuli comes in for Daniel Lienert-Brown at loosehead prop.
The defending champion Crusaders face the undefeated Highlanders after going down to the Hurricanes last weekend, 29-19, their first loss of the season.
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