Chiefs Manawa are set to be boosted by the return of a couple of injured frontline players for Saturday’s showdown with Hurricanes Poua at FMG Stadium Waikato.
Following a last-minute 24-22 defeat to the Blues last week, the Manawa take on a Poua side who are also hunting their first win of the 2025 Sky Super Rugby Aupiki season.
Forward Grace Kukutai is named to start after overcoming a knee injury, along with the return of Logan Hauraki (back) on the bench.
Luka Connor comes in at hooker, while captain Kennedy Tukuafu moves to No.8 in a rejigged pack.
Renee Holmes starts at fullback after coming off the bench last week, with Tenika Willison moving to the wing alongside Ruby Tui.
The match opens the action on what will be a huge day at FMG Stadium Waikato, with the event coinciding with DHL Super Rugby Pacific’s ‘Super Kids’ Round, with fans encouraged to wear dark colours and ‘black out’ the stadium.
In addition to the on-field action, there will be competitions for the best dressed Super Kid, two fan zones in action, a Super Kids obstacle race and an augmented reality prize drop, featuring over 50 giveaways for fans.
Local act White Chapel Jak will also perform pre-match and at half-time. Click here to buy tickets.
Chiefs Manawa v Hurricanes Poua, Saturday March 15, 4.35pm kick-off at FMG Stadium Waikato
- Kate Henwood
- Luka Connor
- Santo Taumata
- Jade Coates
- Charmaine Smith
- Grace Kukutai
- Martha Mataele
- Kennedy Tukuafu (c)
- Ariana Bayler
- Kelly Brazier
- Tenika Willison
- Azalleyah Maaka
- Mererangi Paul
- Ruby Tui
- Renee Holmes
- Vici Rose-Green
- Krystal Murray
- Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu
- Logan Hauraki
- Chyna Hohepa
- Holli O’Sullivan
- Hazel Tubic
- Shoshanah Seumanutafa
Chiefs Manawa injury update ahead of Round 3
- Rosie Kelly, Calf, Short-term
- Leata Puni-Lio, Shoulder, Short-term
- Tanya Kalounivale, Finger, Mid-term
