Wellington, Feb 23 NZPA - All Blacks lock Isaac Ross has been ruled out of the Crusaders team for Friday's Super 14 rugby match against the Sharks due to an ankle injury.

Ross injured his left ankle at training yesterday and was ruled out today, the Crusaders said in a statement.

Crusaders wider training group member Joe Wheeler, a Tasman player, will come in to the squad as Ross' replacement.

Coach Todd Blackadder will name his team tomorrow morning.