News

It's Cane v McCaw in Hamilton

Wed, 04 Jul 2012 07:59
Sam-cane-abs-630 Sam-cane-fans-630
It is one of the most anticipated games this season
Quote-end

The table-topping Chiefs have made significant changes to their team for the Super Rugby crunch derby against the Crusaders on Friday.

In one of the most anticipated games this season, exciting new All Black Sam Cane starts in the No.7 jersey - going head to head with the legendary Richie McCaw

The Chiefs' top try-scorer Sona Taumalolo starts at prop, while Alex Bradley starts at No.8 - replacing Kane Thompson who has a back injury

Robbie Robinson retains his fullback position, while at centre Andrew Horrell replaces Jackson Willison, who moves to the bench.

The Chiefs have already qualified for the Super Rugby play-offs and have won the New Zealand Conference, but still have to play for a home semifinal and the bye in the first round of the play-offs.

Chiefs: 15 Robbie Robinson, 14 Tim Nanai-Williams, 13 Andrew Horrell, 12 Sonny Bill Williams, 11 Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 8 Alex Bradley, 7 Sam Cane, 6 Liam Messam, 5 Brodie Retallick, 4 Craig Clarke (captain), 3 Ben Tameifuna, 2 Mahonri Schwalger, 1 Sona Taumalolo.
Replacements: 16 Hika Elliot, 17 Toby Smith, 18 Romana Graham, 19 Tanerau Latimer, 20 Brendon Leonard, 21 Jackson Willison, 22 Lelia Masaga.

Date: Friday, July 6
Venue: Waikato Stadium, Hamilton
Kick-off: 19.35 (07.35 GMT)
Referee: Steve Walsh (Australia)
Assistant referees: Garratt Williamson (New Zealand), Glen Jackson (New Zealand)
TMO: Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand)

RELATED ARTICLES
Newsletter Subscription
Subscribe now to Rugby365 and you'll be able to receive our informative newsletters and access special promotions.