‘Lucky losers’ Chiefs bolstered by return of All Blacks duo for semi

The Chiefs have received a significant boost ahead of their semi-final against the ACT Brumbies in Hamilton, with captain Luke Jacobson and midfielder Quinn Tupaea returning after missing last weekend’s shock loss to the Blues.

Jacobson was a last-minute withdrawal ahead of the Qualifying Final at FMG Stadium, but with the Chiefs moving on as the ‘lucky loser’ from that stage of the competition, the openside bolsters a formidable Chiefs outfit ready to make amends.

Coach Clayton McMillan has named Jacobson at openside flanker, with the skipper set to link up with Samipeni Finau and Wallace Sititi in the backrow. Naitoa Ah Kuoi and Tupou Vaa’i are the locks, while Ollie Norris, Samisoni Taukei’aho and George Dyer make up the front row.

In the backs, All Blacks Cortez Ratima and Damian McKenzie will combine in the halves, while Tupaea is back in the mix at inside centre. Tupaea will start alongside Daniel Rona in the midfield, while Leory Carter and Emoni start on the wings.

Japan-bound Shaun Stevenson will wear the No. 15 jersey as the team’s starting fullback. Then on the bench, McMillan has named the likes of Kaylum Boshier, Josh Jacomb and Gideon Wrampling to provide impact off the bench.

“They’ve proven themselves as the top Australian side. They’re hardened, well-drilled and know how to close out a tight contest. Their performance against the Hurricanes shows they can be clinical and composed under pressure,” McMillan said in a statement.

We know they bring a different style of rugby. It’s structured, with a strong set piece and smart kicking game, and we’re prepared for that.

“This week is about fronting up physically, staying disciplined, and backing our style to rise to the occasion.”

This semi-final between the Chiefs and Blues at FMG Stadium Waikato will kick off at 7:05 pm NZT on Saturday evening.

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

5

Draws

0

Wins

0

Average Points scored

36

18

First try wins

60%

Home team wins

80%

Chiefs team to take on Blues

Ollie Norris
Samisoni Taukei’aho
George Dyer
Naitoa Ah Kuoi
Tupou Vaa’i
Samipeni Finau
Luke Jacobson
Wallace Sititi
Cortez Ratima
Damian McKenzie
Leroy Carter
Quinn Tupaea
Daniel Rona
Emoni Narawa
Shaun Stevenson

Replacements 

Brodie McAlister
Jared Proffit
Reuben O’Neill
Jimmy Tupou
Kaylum Boshier
Xavier Roe
Josh Jacomb
Gideon Wrampling