The Chiefs (1) vs Brumbies (4) in Hamilton, Saturday 5.05pm kickoff AEST
The Brumbies are pleased to have Corey Toole back for Saturday’s semi-final against the Chiefs at FMG Stadium Waikato.
The talented winger missed the exciting quarter-final victory over the Hurricanes due to an ankle injury. However, he has been included on the bench for the match against the minor premiers, taking the place of veteran Jesse Mogg.
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham has made only one change to the starting lineup, with Tom Hooper replacing Jahrome Brown to strengthen the backrow.
Hooper will assume the unfamiliar position of openside flanker, while Pete Samu moves to blindside and Rob Valetini takes on the role of No.8.
As expected, captain Allan Alaalatoa remains sidelined with a calf injury, and Nic White will continue to lead the team.
Jack Debreczeni has been chosen as the No.10 over Noah Lolesio following an impressive performance against the Hurricanes. Additionally, Wallabies player Darcy Swain has been named among the reserves.
“We have chosen to maintain our continuity and combinations this week as we head to New Zealand with great energy and enthusiasm for this challenge,” stated Larkham.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs have made three changes to their starting lineup, with prop George Dyer, lock Tupou Vaa’i, and centre Alex Nankivell replacing John Ryan, Josh Lord, and Rameka Poihipi, respectively.
“The Brumbies will arrive with a lot of confidence following their victory over the Hurricanes,” commented Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan.
“While their strengths in the lineout maul and contestable kicks were evident, they also displayed a willingness to run with the ball from deeper within their territory. They are a well-rounded team that poses a threat if allowed to play their game. We have selected an experienced, fresh, and hungry squad who are fully prepared for the job. It should be an exceptional game!”
Chiefs (15-1): Shaun Stevenson, Emoni Narawa, Alex Nankivell, Anton Lienert-Brown, Etene Nanai-Seturo, Damian McKenzie, Brad Weber (co-c), Luke Jacobson, Sam Cane (co-c), Samipeni Finau, Tupou Vaa’i, Brodie Retallick, George Dyer, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Aidan Ross
Reserves: Tyrone Thompson, Ollie Norris, John Ryan, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Pita Gus Sowakula, Cortez Ratima, Josh Ioane, Rameka Poihipi.
Brumbies (15-1): Tom Wright, Andy Muirhead, Len Ikitau, Tamati Tua, Ollie Sapsford, Jack Debreczeni, Nic White (c), Rob Valetini, Tom Hooper, Pete Samu, Cadeyrn Neville, Nick Frost, Sefo Kautai, Lachlan Lonergan, James Slipper
Reserves: Connal McInerney, Blake Schoupp, Rhys van Nek, Darcy Swain, Luke Reimer, Ryan Lonergan, Noah Lolesio, Corey Toole
Denial of responsibility! SamacharCentrl is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
Hasibur Rahaman is a passionate sports journalist. He covers everything from cricket to field hockey, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis of sporting events, both within India and on the international stage.
