The Melbourne Rebels have made seven changes to their starting XV ahead of their crucial Super Rugby clash with the Crusaders in Christchurch.

The Rebels will field a new halfback combination for the match, with scrum-half Michael Ruru set to partner with fly-half Matt Toomua.

That means they will be without starting number nine Will Genia, who will miss the trans-Tasman trip as part of the Wallabies rest policy, while Marika Koroibete will start on the bench. Quade Cooper will also begin as a replacement acknowledging his heavy workload having started in every match this season.

Elsewhere, Wallaby hooker Jordan Uelese earns a starting spot at hooker for the first time in 2019.

Sam Talakai, Angus Cottrell, Tom English and Billy Meakes will all make their return to the starting XV, while Harrison Goddard will potentially make his second appearance of 2019 after being named on the bench.

Rebels head coach Dave Wessels said the changes within the side has created multiple opportunities for other members of the playing group, with Wessels especially coy on hooker Jordan Uelese earning his first start of the season.

“It’s nice to have Jordy back,” he said.

“We’re in a position where we have three hookers playing well. I think Roachy (Hugh Roach) has played well, but he’s played a lot of minutes in the last couple of weeks, so he gets a breather and Jordy is fresh and ready to go.”

Wessels also said the resting of Quade Cooper came down to the star play maker needing reduced minutes after a heavy workload.

“Quade’s had a massive workload, he’s played every game so far,” he added.

“For him to be able to have a breather is handy for us and to Matt To’omua’s credit he’s fitted in well.”

With so many changes slated for the side, Wessels has rebuked suggestions his side is looking to load up for the Club’s final home game against the Chiefs, saying the Rebels are not in the position to do so.

“We don’t have the luxury of taking things easy,” said Wessels.

“We’ve got to fight for every opportunity, and this is another opportunity.”