Waratahs make 5 changes for Crusaders

Chris Whitaker and Jason Gilmore have made 5 changes to the Waratahs side ahead of their massive encounter with Super Rugby Aotearoa champs, the Crusaders. 

A fresh second-row combo of Jack Whetton and Jeremy Williams take their places in the starting XV after Hugh Sinclair and Max Douglas were ruled out of selection through injury.

Jack Dempsey, who will win his 50th Waratahs cap, comes in to replace Charlie Gamble who is nursing a calf injury.

In the backs, Izaia Perese appears to be over his groin injury and comes back into the side to partner Lalakai Foketi in the midfield while Alex Newsome replaces James Turner on the left wing.