Canterbury loose forward Reed Prinsep has been called up to the Hurricanes starting side for Saturday's Investec Super Rugby clash with the competition leading Crusaders in Christchurch.

Prinsep, who made his Super Rugby debut for the Crusaders last year, will start at blindside against his former team with Brad Shields shifting to No.8 for the first time this season.

There is one other change to the side that started against the Stormers in Wellington last Friday with loose head prop Chris Eves switching roles with Ben May, who takes his place among the reserves.

CAPTION: Prop Chris Eves charges ahead during his team's match against the Stormers at Westpac Stadium. PHOTO: Getty Sport

Prinsep's elevation to the run-on team represents his fourth start of 2017, but first in the No 6 jersey, and means Ardie Savea returns to openside in a new look loose trio.

Prinsep played a single match for the Crusaders, against the Chiefs, last season before being signed by the Hurricanes.

There are a further three personnel changes in the reserves where prop Loni Uhila returns after an eight week, six-match absence caused by a persistent calf injury.

Uhila's only other appearance this season was during the round three loss to the Chiefs in Hamilton where he lasted only a few minutes before re-injuring the calf that had kept him out of the opening two rounds.

CAPTION: Prop Loni Uhila takes on the Chiefs defence in Hamilton during his only previous appearance of the Investec Super Rugby 2017 season. PHOTO: Getty Sport

Uhila's return sees Mike Kainga drop out of the match day 23, while lock Sam Lousi returns in place of James Blackwell, and Wes Goosen takes over from Ben Lam as the outside back cover.

Finally, Taranaki loose forward Toa Halafihi comes into the squad for Callum Gibbins who was unavailable for selection after injuring his shoulder against the Stormers.

Saturday's match will be the 30th time the Hurricanes have played the Crusaders, who hold a 17-10 advantage in the rivalry, with two draws.

However, the Hurricanes have enjoyed an edge in recent seasons, winning four of the last five matches between the clubs, the last being a 35-10 victory in Christchurch last year.

The Hurricanes have won eight of nine matches to sit third on the New Zealand Conference ladder behind the conference leading Crusaders, who are unbeaten through ten matches this season, and the Chiefs.

The Hurricanes team to play the Crusaders at AMI Stadium in Christchurch on Saturday: