Whitelock makes a return from a concussion to start for the Crusaders

All Blacks and Crusaders lock Sam Whitelock will make a return to the Crusaders’ 23-man match day squad for their Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific second-round clash against the Highlanders this Friday.

After missing out on last week’s disappointing 31-10 loss to the Chiefs due to concussion, the lock forward will be looking to make his presence felt in this week’s Super Round in Melbourne.

Whitelock’s return could help solve the worrying beads in Crusaders territory that have been getting a hammering from fans since the defeat to Chiefs last week.

Whitelock will start at lock this weekend and will go head to head with Highlanders’ upcoming youngster, William Tucker.

Fijian-born All Blacks winger Sevu Reece will start on the wing for Crusaders, while fellow Fijian George Bower is on the bench.

Fijian winger Mosese Dawai will be starting off the bench for the Highlanders for the second week in a row.

The Crusaders vs Highlanders match will kick off at 7pm Friday in Melbourne.

Meanwhile, the Fijian Drua will take on the Waratahs at 8.35pm Saturday in Melbourne.

Other Super Rugby Pacific super round matches this week will see Rebels taking on Hurricane at 9.10pm on Friday, Moana Pasifika will play Chiefs at 6.05pm Saturday, Blues will take on Brumbies at 3pm on Sunday and Western Force will play the Reds at 5.30pm on Sunday. All games will be held at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium in Melbourne.

Finals