Cross-code convert Israel Folau was named as the Waratahs’ danger man by Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder ahead of Friday night’s crucial Super Rugby clash in Christchurch.

Blackadder believes fullback Folau’s impact is comparable to that of Sonny Bill Williams.

Now back in the NRL, Williams seamlessly made the transition from league to rugby when he first linked with the Crusaders before becoming part of the All Blacks’ 2011 World Cup success.

“He’s been sensational and I think he’s turned the Waratahs’ season around,” Blackadder said of Folau.

“He’s been their kingpin and had a hand in all their tries. He’s been fantastic and given them opportunities they wouldn’t have had unless he’s been there.

“Obviously with his league background, he’s got a good solid work ethic so he can handle this level quite easily.”

Blackadder hastened to add that Folau was not a one-man band.

“We expect the whole forward pack to put us under huge pressure,” he said.

“We respect them. We know the way they’ve been playing they’ll bring a lot of physicality and we’ll be under the pump.”

With the sixth-placed Crusaders three points ahead of their eighth-placed opponents, both teams desperately need a win to keep alive their aspirations of reaching the playoffs.

“Every game every week is a big one but none is bigger than tomorrow night’s game,” Blackadder said.

The Crusaders have three changes to the team that lost to competition leaders the Chiefs 28-19 in Hamilton last Friday.

Veteran hooker Corey Flynn has recovered from a hamstring strain to replace Codie Taylor, towering lock Dominic Bird takes the place of the injured Sam Whitelock, and Willie Heinz is at halfback ahead of Andy Ellis.

History favours the Crusaders. They have won the past 10 matches between the two sides, with the Waratahs’ most recent victory being in 2004.