Fruean comeback confirmed
Chiefs coach Dave Rennie has confirmed the return of midfielder Robbie Fruean, naming him at outside centre in the team to play the Highlanders in Dunedin on Friday.
Fruean will make his comeback in the must-win battle with the Highlanders after recovering from an astounding three heart surgeries.
Scrumhalf Augustine Pulu also makes his Super Rugby comeback, after a recent knee procedure.
Both players have already experienced some club rugby before making their return this Friday.
Gareth Anscombe starts at fullback, with Tevita Koloamatangi, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Tim Nanai-Williams and James Lowe new additions to the bench.
* Meanwhile the Chiefs signed Tasman hooker Quentin MacDonald and Waikato captain Brad Weber.
MacDonald has returned to New Zealand after playing for Munster in Ireland. He will join the Chiefs for the 2015 Super Rugby Season, after this years NPC season.
MacDonald is keen to make his return to Super Rugby.
"It is a fantastic opportunity with an awesome coaching staff and a great player base," said the 25-year old.
Weber has also signed for the 2015 season.
The 23-year-old scrumhalf was originally part of the Chiefs wider training squad this season.
He has played seven matches for the Chiefs, having made his debut against the Crusaders in the opening round this year.
"I feel this is the best place for my development. I have come along way in a year and the coaching at the Chiefs is unreal. I enjoy the company of the boys and love the culture here," said Weber.
Chiefs: 15 Gareth Anscombe, 14 Dwayne Sweeney, 13 Robbie Fruean, 12 Bundee Aki, 11 Tom Marshall, 10 Aaron Cruden (captain), 9 Augustine Pulu, 8 Liam Squire, 7 Tanerau Latimer, 6 Liam Messam, 5 Brodie Retallick, 4 Michael Fitzgerald, 3 Ben Tameifuna, 2 Mahonri Schwalger, 1 Pauliasi Manu.
Replacements: 16 Nathan Harris, 17 Jamie Mackintosh, 18 Josh Hohneck, 19 Matt Symons, 20 Tevita Koloamatangi, 21 Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 22 Tim Nanai-Williams, 23 James Lowe.
Date: Friday, June 27
Venue: Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
Kick-off: 19.35 (07.35 GMT)
Referee: Garratt Williamson (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: Kane McBride (New Zealand), Mike Lash (New Zealand)
TMO: Chris Wratt (New Zealand)
