Front row refresh for the Chiefs to face Moana Pasifika

The Chiefs have named a new front row combination for their clash against Moana Pasifika in Pukekohe, as Counties Manukau forward James Thompson prepares for a potential debut.

Jared Proffit, Bradley Slater and Reuben O’Neill form the new front row after missing last week’s 32-31 victory over the Blues in Hamilton. A powerful reserve bench includes Aidan Ross and Samisoni Taukei’aho to provide impact.

Fixture

Super Rugby Pacific

Moana Pasifika

35 - 50

Full-time

Chiefs

All Stats and Data

The familiar lock combination of Naitoa Ah Koui and Tupou Vaa’i packs down in the second row, while Samipeni Finau, Kaylum Boshier and Luke Jacobson form the loose trio.

Cambridge produce Thompson, who attended St Peter’s College, joined the Chiefs wider squad over the off-season after a prior stint with the Blues.

Veteran midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown will miss the match after being a late withdrawal in round five due to a minor leg injury, while forward Simon Parker is also laid up with a knee issue.

Gallagher Chiefs v Moana Pasifika, Friday March 21, 7.05pm kick-off at Navigation Homes Stadium, Pukekohe:

1. Jared Proffit
2. Bradley Slater
3. Reuben O’Neill
4. Naitoa Ah Kuoi
5. Tupou Vaa’i
6. Samipeni Finau
7. Kaylum Boshier
8. Luke Jacobson (c)
9. Xavier Roe
10. Damian McKenzie
11. Leroy Carter
12. Gideon Wrampling
13. Daniel Rona
14. Emoni Narawa
15. Shaun Stevenson

Reserves

16. Samisoni Taukei’aho
17. Aidan Ross
18. Sione Ahio
19. James Thompson (Chiefs debut)
20. Jahrome Brown
21. Cortez Ratima
22. Josh Jacomb
23. Quinn Tupaea