He's back: Wallace Sititi named for season debut against Force

The World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year could return to the rugby field for the first time in 2025 when the Chiefs host the Western Force in Mount Maunganui.

Wallace Sititi has been named as one of six forwards on the Chiefs’ bench, furthering the ladder leaders’ title credentials just over a month out from the playoffs.

The round 11 matchup is a special one for All Blacks hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho too, who is set to become a Chiefs centurion this weekend.

“Samisoni has earned every one of those 100 caps through commitment to the game and to the team. It’s a special milestone, and to celebrate it on Anzac Day, in front of a sold-out crowd at Bay Oval, makes it all the more meaningful,” said Head Coach Clayton McMillan.

Damian McKenzie has been ruled out of the game with a hand injury, but has been listed as “returning soon”, along with Leroy Carter (foot) and Etene Nanai-Seturo (hamstring).

Kaleb Trask’s timely return to fitness provides utility cover off the bench.

Chiefs team to play the Western Force

1. Aidan Ross
2. Samisoni Taukei’aho
3. George Dyer
4. Josh Lord
5. Tupou Vaa’i
6. Samipeni Finau
7. Kaylum Boshier
8. Luke Jacobson
9. Cortez Ratima
10. Josh Jacomb
11. Daniel Rona
12. Quinn Tupaea
13. Anton Lienert-Brown
14. Emoni Narawa
15. Shaun Stevenson

Reserves

16. Brodie McAlister
17. Ollie Norris
18. Ruben O’Neill
19. Naitoa Ah Kuoi
20. Simon Parker
21. Wallace Sititi
22. Te Toirua Tahuriorangi
23. Kaleb Trask