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Scott Robertson has removed some in-form firepower from his Crusaders backline for the Super Rugby champions' home clash with the Queensland Reds.

Two of the Crusaders' in-form attacking weapons have been replaced by a pair of Super Rugby rookies for Friday's match against the Queensland Reds in Christchurch.

Scott Robertson has taken a punt by omitting fullback David Havili and outside centre Braydon Ennor for the first time this season, even though the pair have been among the most incisive outside backs through the first month of the competition.

It has taken a reshuffle to create room for newcomers Leicester Faingaanuku and Dallas McLeod.

Faingaanuku starts on the left wing for just the second time this season, pushing George Bridge to fullback, while McLeod will make his Super Rugby debut when starting at inside centre.

In-form All Black Jack Goodhue moves to the more familiar No.13 jersey to accommodate McLeod's promotion.

In the only change to the pack who blew away the Highlanders 33-13 two weeks ago, captain Scott Barrett has benefited from the bye round and returned from a knee injury in place of veteran Luke Romano.

The Crusaders lead the New Zealand conference with three wins while the Reds' loss the Sharks last week was their fourth of a modest start to the season.

Not only are the Reds chasing their first win in Christchurch since 1999, they're hoping to become the first team in 34 attempts to knock over the three-time defending champions at their home venue.

CRUSADERS: George Bridge, Sevu Reece, Jack Goodhue, Dallas McLeod, Leicester Faingaanuku, Richie Mo'unga, Eretara Enari, Tom Sanders, Tom Christie, Cullen Grace, Mitchell Dunshea, Scott Barrett (capt), Michael Alaalatoa, Codie Taylor, Joe Moody. Res: Brodie McAlister, George Bower, Oli Jager, Luke Romano, Sione Havili, Mitchell Drummond, Brett Cameron, Manasa Mataele.