Two-test All Black Jordie Barrett will make his return to rugby on Sunday after being included on the bench in the Hurricanes Development squad who will meet the Crusaders Knights in Christchurch.

Barrett has been sidelined since the middle of last year after he underwent shoulder surgery following the British and Irish Lions series but has been training with the Hurricanes through the pre-season.

"He has come through protocols during the week and is on schedule for his return to play and so he will take his opportunity," Hurricanes Recruitment and Development Manager Darren Larsen said.

"It's exciting for him to come back and get a go. He will be on managed minutes but it's great to see him back on the footy field, he's really excited."

Sunday's match is the first of the season for the Hurricanes Development side with Larsen happy with the way the squad had come together.

A number of the Hurricanes squad who did not travel to South Africa have been included in the side with James Blackwell and Reed Prinsep starting.