Super Rugby: Solomon Alaimalo returns for Chiefs v Hurricanes

  • 25/04/2019
Alaimalo will start at fullback.
Alaimalo will start at fullback. Photo credit: Photosport

Chiefs coach Colin Cooper has reshuffled his squad for Saturday's Super Rugby against the Hurricanes in Wellington on Saturday.

The front row has been rejigged, with All Blacks prop Angus Ta'avao moving back to his preferred tighthead position, alongside Atu Moli and Nathan Harris.

All Black Nepo Laulala will sit the game out due to a minor knee injury.

In the backs, Solomon Alaimalo returns to fullback, while Tumua Manu moves back to start at centre.

Loosehead prop Tevita Mafileo and halfback Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi have been added to the game day squad, along with Stephen Donald and midfield cover Alex Nankivell.

Cooper admitted his side will need to lift after their disappointing loss to the Sunwolves last week. 

"We need to be more disciplined and alert if we are to be competitive," he said.

"We need to ensure our defence systems are strong and we are quick to our feet. If we can combine that with patience and control on attack, we should be in a good space."

Chiefs: 1-Atu Moli, 2-Nathan Harris, 3-Angus Ta'avao, 4-Michael Allardice, 5-Mitchell Brown, 6-Luke Jacobson, 7-Lachlan Boshier, 8-Tyler Ardron, 9-Brad Weber, 10-Marty McKenzie, 11-Ataata Moeakiola, 12-Anton Lienert-Brown, 13-Tumua Manu, 14-Sean Wainui, 15-Solomon Alaimalo

Reserves: 16-Liam Polwart, 17-Tevita Mafileo, 18-Sosefo Kautai, 19-Taleni Seu, 20-Jesse Parete, 21-Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, 22-Stephen Donald, 23-Alex Nankivell

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