Fiji-born Manasa Mataele has been again named in the Crusaders starting team for the match against the Highlanders today.

Mataele scored a try for the Super Rugby champions in their 34-19 win over Hurricanes in a preseason match last weekend.

Crusaders Head Coach Scott Robertson has named a squad of 27 for the match, including the much anticipated return George Bridge and second five-eighth Tim Bateman who will both take the field for the first time this year.

Whetukamokamo Douglas will Captain the side, supported by halfbacks Mitchell Drummond and Bryn Hall as Vice-Captains.

Meanwhile, the Super Rugby season kicks off next Friday.

You can catch the Brumbies-Rebels match at 8.45pm on Friday and Blues-Crusaders game at 6.35 on Saturday live on FBC Sports