All Blacks No.8 Kieran Read will return to Super Rugby action for the Canterbury Crusaders on Friday after six weeks on the sidelines with concussion and flu.

The 2013 International Rugby Board Player of the Year, who sustained the concussion against the Waikato Chiefs on April 19, will captain the seven-time champions in their match against the Western Force in Christchurch.

The 28-year-old has been training with the All Blacks in preparation for the June series against England.