Cruden returns through the bench
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Aaron Cruden will return to Super Rugby action via the Chiefs bench when they take on the Hurricanes in Wellington this Saturday.
Cruden suffered a thumb injury that required surgery, the long-term out look seemed bleak for the flyhalf but he has returned at a critical time for both the Chiefs and All Blacks.
The Chiefs have made three changes to the starting fifteen for this weekend’s match with Asaeli Tikoirotuma and Charlie Ngatai returning from injury to take their place on the left wing and at centre.
Tim Nanai-Williams who has recommitted to the Chiefs for the 2015 season returns to fullback.
Kane Thompson comes into the reserves and is joined by Aaron Cruden.
The addition of Tom Marshall, the only other change to the Chiefs bench.
Chiefs: 15 Tim Nanai-Williams, 14 Dwayne Sweeney, 13 Charlie Ngatai, 12 Bundee Aki, 11 Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 10 Gareth Anscombe, 9 Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 8 Liam Messam (captain), 7 Sam Cane, 6 Tanerau Latimer, 5 Brodie Retallick, 4 Michael Fitzgerald, 3 Ben Tameifuna, 2 Nathan Harris, 1 Pauliasi Manu.
Replacements: 16 Mahonri Schwalger, 17 Jamie Mackintosh, 18 Josh Hohneck, 19 Kane Thompson, 20 Liam Squire, 21 Brad Weber, 22 Aaron Cruden, 23 Tom Marshall.
Date: Saturday, May 24
Venue: Westpac Stadium, Wellington
Kick-off: 19.35 (07.35 GMT)
Referee: Angus Gardner (Australia)
Assistant referees: Chris Pollock (New Zealand), Mike Lash (New Zealand)
TMO: Chris Watt (New Zealand)
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