Big Chiefs back to face Reds
The Chiefs, who remain at the top of the Super Rugby competition, have brought back a number of their frontline stars to play the defending-champion Reds in Brisbane this Sunday.
After resting some players during there ninth win in a row, the Chiefs have the services of Brodie Retallick and Liam Messam back in the starting line up.
Alex Bradley comes in at No.8, with Kane Thompson, Sam Cane and Robbie Robinson on the bench.
Tawera-Kerr Barlow is unavailable due to minor illness.
Assistant coach Wayne Smith admitted the Reds, who are beginning to “hit form” will be a big challenge.
“We know the Reds are starting to hit form with their top players coming back at the right time,” Smith said.
“They have targeted this game on their home track as a must win match for them, so we are expecting an intense fixture in front of a large Sunday crowd.”
Chiefs: 15 Andrew Horrell, 14 Lelia Masaga, 13 Richard Kahui, 12 Sonny Bill Williams, 11 Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Brendon Leonard, 8 Alex Bradley, 7 Tanerau Latimer, 6 Liam Messam, 5 Brodie Retallick, 4 Craig Clarke (captain), 3 Ben Tameifuna, 2 Mahonri Schwalger, 1 Arizona Taumalolo.
Replacements: 16 Hika Elliot, 17 Toby Smith, 18 Kane Thompson, 19 Sam Cane, 20 Augustine Pulu, 21 Jackson Willison, 22 Robbie Robinson.
Date: Sunday, May 13
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Kick-off: 16.10 (06.10 GMT)
Referee: Marius Jonker (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Andrew Lees (Australia), Simon Moore (Australia)
TMO: Steve Lesczcynski (Australia)
