Crusaders captain Richie McCaw has been forced out of their Super 15 rugby match against the Stormers on Sunday morning (AEST) due to concussion.

McCaw had experienced headaches during the week after taking a blow to the head in the win over the Western Force in Perth last Sunday.

The number of headaches had lessened during the week, but Crusaders management decided early this morning in Cape Town that McCaw would not take part in the match at Newlands.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said McCaw would be monitored in line with head injury protocols but was likely to be available for next weekend's match against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.

Matt Todd will play at openside flanker in McCaw's place.

Jonathan Poff comes on to the reserves bench.

Returning No. 8 Kieran Read will captain the side in McCaw's absence.

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