Cane leads Chiefs into battle

The mid-afternoon kick-off will assist the players in preparing for the warmer climates they can expect in South Africa and Argentina in the coming weeks.

The Chiefs open their 2016 Super Rugby campaign against the Crusaders on February 27, with the pre-season trials against the Waratahs and Blues providing players with the opportunity to stake their claim for selection and allow the newest additions to experience the intensity of Super Rugby for the first time.

In order to give all players a run in Friday's trial, both teams will utilise rolling substitutions.

Not considered for selection were a host of frontline players from the Chiefs – including Nepo Laulala, Toni Pulu, Dominic Bird, Augustine Pulu, Aaron Cruden, Andrew Horrell, Hika Elliot, Sam McNicol, Michael Leitch and Stephen Donald.

Chiefs: 15 Shaun Stevenson, 14 Glen Fisiiahi, 13 Seta Tamanivalu, 12 Charlie Ngatai, 11 James Lowe, 10 Damian McKenzie, 9 Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 8 Maama Vaipulu, 7 Sam Cane (captain), 6 Johan Bardoul, 5 Brodie Retallick, 4 James Tucker, 3 Siate Tokolahi, 2 Nathan Harris, 1 Mitchell Graham.

Replacements – from: Rhys Marshall, Pauliasi Manu, Siegfried Fisiihoi, Michael Allardice, Tevita Koloamatangi, Brad Weber, Chase Tiatia, Anton Lienert-Brown, Lalakai Foketi, Mitchell Karpik, Taleni Seu, Tom Sanders, Sam Vaka, Latu Vaeno, Atu Moli, Mike Kainga, Pele Cowley, Keepa Mewett, Michael Mayhew, Monty Ioane.

Date: Friday, February 12

Venue: Rotorua International Stadium, Rotorua

Kick-off: 18.00 (16.00 AEDT; 05.00 GMT)

Referee: Nick Briant (New Zealand)