Wellington XV named to play Manawatu in Levin
Du’Plessis Kirifi will captain a star-studded Wellington side set to take on Manawatu this weekend in Levin.
With just eight days until the Mitre 10 Cup kicks off, it’s the only pre-season clash scheduled before officially launching into the 2020 campaign on Saturday, September 12.
Head coach, Leo Crowley, says this game is all about finding the baseline from which his side can build on.
“The first week has gone well. Our Boys are energised and excited for what lays ahead and we know everything won’t be perfect, but our intent will be. Plenty to play for with the Waikato game the goal.”
The Wellington Lions officially came together for the first time on Monday but have been missing a few key bodies due to North vs South, injury and those who are still resting up following Super Rugby Aotearoa.
Despite that, nine players ncluded in this 27-man squad have been contracted to Super Rugby Franchises this year.
Crowley says he’s looking forward to seeing how they work alongside some of the younger talent.
“Mixing the nine first year boys with the seasoned professional group has gone smoothly. The attitude and willingness of the senior group to support everyone in the squad has been very inspiring.”
Kick-off is at 1:05pm.
The Wellington XV set to play Manawatu at Levin Domain is:
1 Kaliopasi Uluilakepa
2 Tyrone Thompson
3 Josiah Tavita-Metcalfe
4 Taine Plumtree
5 Naitoa Ah Kuoi
6 Vaea Fifita
7 Du’Plessis Kirifi
8 Teariki Ben-Nicholas
9 Connor Collins
10 Jackson Garden-Bachop
11 Pepesana Patafilo
12 Vince Aso
13 Billy Proctor
14 Connor Garden-Bachop
15 Trent Renata
16 Bruce Kauika-Petersen
17 Gerard Faitotoa
18 Luke Chisholm
19 Josh To’omaga
20 Caleb Delany
21 Shamus Hurley-Langton
22 Mateaki Kafatolu
23 Kemara Hauiti-Parapara
24 Aidan Morgan
25 Julian Savea
26 Callum Harkin
27 Ruben Love