The Chiefs are expecting an arm wrestle against the Hurricanes on Friday as they look to restart their Super Rugby campaign with a win.
Coach Dave Rennie has named several players returning from injury for the Chiefs’ last home match of the regular season.
Tim Nanai-Williams, back from a groin injury and stomach ulcer, comes in at centre while Lelia Masaga has earned a start on the wing. Andrew Horrell makes his comeback from the reserves where he is joined by Charlie Ngatai.
There is only one change in the forwards, with new All Black Ben Afeaki starting at prop and Ben Tameifuna moving to the bench.
The defending champions, coming off a bye and the three-week international break, know they’ll have a tough match against the Hurricanes, Rennie says.
“The Hurricanes had a pretty good win against the Crusaders last week and will be buoyed by that.
“Mathematically, they’re still in the competition and they have everything to play for.
“It will be pretty physical and as the weather is expected to play its part, you will see two positive sides on the field having a real arm wrestle.”
The New Zealand derby is the official farewell match of Chiefs’ players Craig Clarke, Lelia Masaga, Richard Kahui, Brendon Leonard and Toby Smith.
Chiefs: Robbie Robinson, Lelia Masaga, Tim Nanai-Williams, Bundee Aki, Asaeli Tikoirotuma, Aaron Cruden, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Matt Vant Leven, Tanerau Latimer, Liam Messam, Brodie Retallick, Craig Clarke, Ben Afeaki, Hika Elliot, Pauliasi Manu. Reserves: Mahonri Schwalger, Ben Tameifuna, Michael Fitzgerald, Sam Cane, Augustine Pulu, Andrew Horrell, Charlie Ngatai.