Brumbies name unchanged XV for showdown against Crusaders in Christchurch

THE Brumbies have named an unchanged starting line up for their Super Rugby clash with the Crusaders in Christchurch.

Nic White and the Brumbies take on the Crusaders in Christchurch of Saturday.

THE Brumbies have named an unchanged starting line up for their Super Rugby clash with the Crusaders in Christchurch on Saturday.

Prop Ruaidhri Murphy will come on to the bench for JP Smith in the only change made to the side that dismantled defending premiers the Chiefs 41-23 in Canberra last weekend.

After being ruled out in the warm up last week, reserve hooker Siliva Siliva is again outside the match day 23, with Josh Mann-Rea holding his spot on the bench.

It's the fifth time the Brumbies have named an unchanged XV this season, and will be a huge bonus against the on-fire Crusaders, who haven't lost to the Brumbies in Christchurch since 2000.

Christian Lealiifano in action for the Brumbies last weekend.

Coach Stephen Larkham said the Crusaders were always a big challenge, especially in New Zealand.

“They've had three straight wins now, including two in Africa which is never easy,” he said.

“After a shaky start to the season they've found some form and will be further boosted by the return of Richie McCaw.”

However Crusaders captain Kieran Reid has been ruled out of the match after failing to fully recover from a head knock.

Brumbies: Jesse Mogg, Joe Tomane, Tevita Kuridrani, Christian Lealiifano, Robbie Coleman, Matt Toomua, Nic White, Ben Mowen (capt), Jarrad Butler, Jordan Smiler, Sam Carter, Scott Fardy, Ben Alexander, Stephen Moore, Scott Sio. Res: Josh Mann-Rea, Ruan Smith, Ruaidhri Murphy, Jack Whetton, Tom McVerry, Michael Dowsett, Andrew Smith, Pat McCabe.