Waikato Team Announced to Play Hawke’s Bay
9th September 2010 11:03AM
Waikato coach Chris Gibbes announced his side for round seven of the ITM Cup season today.
"With Harbour we were very happy to walk away with a win and the bonus point. We played pretty well in patches of that game and we are keen to keep building on this performance".
"We have another big game this week and will need to be ready for what will be a big physical clash. We have had a solid week in terms of training and the boys are ready to get back onto the field", said Gibbes.
Toby Smith returns to the starting tight forward pack after sustaining a hamstring injury last week at training alongside powerhouse Aled de Malmanche and Captain Nathan White.
Zak Hohneck makes his debut for the 2010 season in the number 7 jersey as Liam Messam moves back into the number 8 position and Jack Lam moves from the open to the blind side.
The Waikato backline remains the same as last week with the exception of Richard Kahui.
"Unfortunately for Richard he landed awkwardly on his shoulder during the game last weekend. He has been off with the flu this week and will see the surgeon tomorrow to see what extent the fall has had on his shoulder," commented Gibbes.
Waikato takes on Hawke's Bay in week seven of the ITM Cup at Mclean Park in Napier on Saturday 11 September. Kickoff is 2.35pm.
The Waikato team is
Toby Smith
Aled de Malmanche
Nathan White (Captain)
Toby Lynn
Romana Graham
Jack Lam
Zak Hohneck
Liam Messam
Brendon Leonard (Vice Captain)
Trent Renata
Dwayne Sweeney
Christian Lealiifano
Save Tokula
Tim Mikkelson
Sosene Anesi
Reserves:
Vern Kamo
Ben May
Dominiko Waqaniburotu
Alex Bradley
Tawera Kerr-Barlow
Sam Christie
Henry Speight
Injuries
The following were not considered for selection due to injury: Stephen Donald first five-eight (chest injury), Jackson Willison second five-eight (hamstring injury), Richard Kahui utility back (shoulder).
