Skipper Kieran Read will make his return from injury for the Crusaders against Super Rugby opponents the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.

The All Blacks No.8 has recovered from a head knock two weeks ago to take his place in the side for the match on Sunday morning (AEST).

He replaces Luke Whitelock, who has returned to New Zealand because of a knee injury.

Read’s inclusion is one of four changes to the starting 15 from the 28-7 win over the Lions in Johannesburg last weekend, the others being rotations with the bench.

Hooker Corey Flynn replaces Ben Funnell, Nepo Laulala takes over at tighthead prop from Owen Franks, while halfback Willi Heinz will wear the No.9 jersey instead of Andy Ellis.

Crusaders: Israel Dagg, Johnny McNicholl, Kieron Fonotia, Ryan Crotty, Nemani Nadolo, Colin Slade, Willi Heinz, Kieran Read (captain), Matt Todd, George Whitelock, Sam Whitelock, Dominic Bird, Nepo Laulala, Corey Flynn, Wyatt Crockett. Reserves: Ben Funnell, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Owen Franks, Jimmy Tupou, Jordan Taufua, Andy Ellis, Tyler Bleyendaal, Tom Taylor.